Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has named his squad for the 2026 World Cup, which includes two new players, Olwethu Makhanya in the photo and Bradley Cross, who will make their national team debuts if selected in the upcoming warm-up match against Nicaragua or during the tournament itself.

Makhanya strengthens the center-back position, while Cross adds depth at left-back, especially with Aubrey Modiba nursing an injury. Modiba and another left-back, Samukele Kabini from Norway, are also in the squad.

Burnley striker Lyle Foster will lead the team, which consists of 19 players from the South African league. Themba Zwane’s experience is viewed as vital for the squad.

This World Cup will be Broos’s last as a coach. At 74, he plans to retire after the tournament, having previously ended his international playing career after the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.

South Africa has participated in three previous World Cups since their debut in 1998, exiting in the group stages each time.

Full Squad Confirmed

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

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

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

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