World Cup 2026: Hugo Broos announces South Africa’s final 26-man squad for tournament

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has named his final 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, sticking largely with his trusted core while introducing two new uncapped players for the tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Defenders Olwethu Makhanya and Bradley Cross are the fresh faces in the squad. Both players were not part of the qualifying campaign and will be hoping to make their international debuts in Friday’s warm-up match against Nicaragua or during the World Cup itself.

Makhanya offers another option at centre-back, while Cross strengthens the left-back position, possibly as cover following Aubrey Modiba’s injury absence in Mamelodi Sundowns’ CAF Champions League final second leg on Sunday.

Modiba has still been included in the squad, alongside Samukele Kabini, who also provides cover at left-back. Kabini plays his club football for Molde in Norway.

Burnley striker Lyle Foster will lead South Africa’s attack, in a squad that is heavily based in the domestic league, with 19 of the 26 players playing in South Africa.

Experienced midfielder Themba Zwane also earns a place, with his composure and leadership expected to play a key role.

This tournament will mark the final chapter of Hugo Broos’ coaching career, with the 74-year-old confirming he will retire after the World Cup. Interestingly, Broos also ended his playing career at a World Cup, the 1986 edition in Mexico, where he helped Belgium finish fourth.

South Africa have previously appeared at three World Cup finals, debuting in 1998, then qualifying again in 2002, and hosting the tournament in 2010. On all three occasions, they exited at the group stage.

South Africa 26-Man Squad

Goalkeepers:

Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Ricardo Goss (Siwelele), Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)

Defenders:

Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane (Mamelodi Sundowns), Olwethu Makhanya (Philadelphia Union), Bradley Cross (Kaizer Chiefs), Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City), Nkosinathi Sibisi, Kamogelo Sebelebele (Orlando Pirates), Ime Okon (Hannover 96), Samukele Kabini (Molde FK), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire)

Midfielders:

Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates), Sphephelo Sithole (Tondela)

Forwards:

Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates), Lyle Foster (Burnley), Iqraam Rayners, Themba Zwane (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thapelo Maseko (AEL Limassol)