Bafana Bafana squad set for September World Cup qualifiers

The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup takes another crucial turn for Bafana Bafana this September, as head coach Hugo Broos named his 23-man squad for back-to-back qualifiers in Bloemfontein. South Africa will host Lesotho on 5 September at the Free State Stadium before locking horns with continental powerhouse Nigeria just four days later a clash that could define their campaign.

Ronwen Williams leads the charge

Mamelodi Sundowns’ captain and Bafana skipper Ronwen Williams once again headlines the squad, bringing stability between the posts. His leadership will be vital, especially against a Nigerian side with a reputation for punishing defensive lapses. Williams is joined by Ricardo Goss of Siwelele and Orlando Pirates’ Sipho Chaine in the goalkeeping department.

Local dominance with Sundowns and Pirates at the core

Unsurprisingly, Sundowns and Pirates provide the backbone of Broos’ team. From the champions, Aubrey Modiba, Zuko Mdunyelwa and midfield dynamo Teboho Mokoena make the cut, while the Buccaneers contribute the likes of Chaine, Patrick Maswanganyi, Thalente Mbatha and the ever-improving Relebohile Mofokeng.

The absence of Khuliso Mudau, still sidelined from Sundowns’ matchday squads this season, remains a major talking point among fans. On social media, supporters have debated whether his continued omission is justified, with some calling it “a gamble too risky ahead of Nigeria.”

Europe-based stars return home

Broos has once again turned to his Europe-based contingent for extra firepower and balance. Lyle Foster of Burnley returns to lead the line, joined by Siyabonga Ngezana (Romania), Luke Le Roux (England), Ime Okon (Germany), and Samukelo Kabini (Norway). Former Pirates striker Mohau Nkota, now plying his trade in Saudi Arabia, also earns a recall.

Youthful flair meets seasoned heads

The squad blends youth and experience in attack. Rising stars Relebohile Mofokeng and Mduduzi Shabalala are tipped to bring creativity, while seasoned campaigners Iqraam Rayners and Oswin Appollis add depth and composure. This balance could prove crucial, especially against Nigeria’s battle-hardened defence.

A Free State showdown with big stakes

The choice of Bloemfontein’s Free State Stadium as host venue is steeped in symbolism. Often described as the “heartbeat of South African football” during the 2010 World Cup, it will once again echo with national pride. Fans online have already called the Nigeria fixture “the game of the year,” with tickets expected to sell out quickly.

For Broos, these two games will be about more than just qualification points. They are a chance to prove that Bafana Bafana can mix grit with flair, and show that South Africa’s football revival is not just a dream but a reality taking shape.

Source:SABC Sport 

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