Stellenbosch FC striker Ashley Cupido has received a late call-up to the Bafana Bafana squad for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda. This comes as a result of injury concerns surrounding Lyle Foster.
The Stellenbosch FC club confirmed the news on their official website, much to the delight of fans. Cupido returns to the national team setup for the first time since June 2025, where he marked his debut with a goal in a friendly against Mozambique. The 24-year-old forward brings valuable experience, having already earned six senior caps and participated in the 2024 COSAFA Cup.
Bafana Bafana currently sit second in Group C, making the upcoming clash at Mbombela Stadium a must-win fixture to secure automatic qualification for the World Cup. The pressure is on, but with Cupido's addition, the squad receives a timely boost in attacking options.
Moloisane Also Joins the Squad
Cupido isn't the only Stellenbosch FC player joining the national team. Thabo Moloisane has also been called up, replacing the suspended Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who received a red card in the goalless draw against Zimbabwe. Coach Hugo Broos now faces a selection headache at centre back, with Moloisane, Sibisi, Khoza, and Ndamane all vying for a starting position.
Mbokazi's Red Card: A Learning Experience?
Coach Broos defended Mbokazi's red card, attributing it to the mistake of a young player. While the draw against Zimbabwe was a setback, Bafana Bafana's hopes of qualifying remain alive, albeit dependent on other results. They need a victory against Rwanda and for Benin to lose against Nigeria.
The predicted Bafana Bafana XI against Rwanda is: Williams, Mudau, Modiba, Moloisane, Sibisi, Mokoena, Sithole, Mbule, Apollis, Nkota, Cupido.
All eyes will be on Mbombela Stadium as Bafana Bafana aim to secure their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.