South Africa Names World Cup Squad After 16-Year Wait

South Africa is heading back to the World Cup for the first time since 2010, and the excitement is real.

Coach Hugo Broos announced his 26-player squad on Wednesday at a ceremony attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria. The team, known as Bafana Bafana, will compete in the 2026 tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico starting June 11.

Two uncapped defenders made the final cut. Olwethu Makhanya, 22, plays for Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer. Bradley Cross, 25, who trained at Newcastle United's academy, now plays for Kaizer Chiefs in Soweto.

Broos kept faith with most of the players who helped South Africa qualify for their first World Cup appearance in 16 years. Nineteen of the 26 players compete in the South African league, showing the coach's trust in local talent.

Veteran playmaker Themba Zwane, 36, earned his spot thanks to his experience and skill. Burnley striker Lyle Foster will lead the attack as South Africa faces a challenging group.

The Bright Side

This World Cup marks a beautiful bookend for coach Broos, who is calling time on his career after the tournament. The 74-year-old Belgian played in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, where his team finished fourth. Now he returns to Mexico 40 years later, coaching a nation hungry for success on soccer's biggest stage.

South Africa's group includes co-host Mexico in the opening match, followed by games against Czech Republic in Atlanta and South Korea in Monterrey. The team has competed in three previous World Cups but has never advanced past the group stage.

"There were some very difficult decisions to be made," Broos said at the announcement. "I hope I have chosen the right ones."

Captain Ronwen Williams will guard the goal, supported by a mix of defensive options that balance youth and experience. The inclusion of Aubrey Modiba shows Broos's confidence, even though the left-back missed a recent Champions League final with a hamstring injury.

For a nation that has waited 16 years to see their team on the world stage, this squad represents hope, home-grown talent, and one coach's perfect farewell.