South Africa at the FIFA World Cup: Team profile and history

South Africa have secured their place at the FIFA World Cup 2026, marking their return to the global stage for the first time since hosting the tournament in 2010. The Bafana Bafana ended a 16-year absence by topping Group C in CAF qualifying, edging out Nigeria and Benin on the final matchday.

Road to 2026

South Africa finished first in Group C with a record of five wins, three draws and two defeats. The qualification campaign came down to the final round of matches. South Africa defeated Rwanda 3-0 at home, while Nigeria beat group leaders Benin 4-0, propelling South Africa into the top spot and a World Cup berth.

Coach Hugo Broos, a Belgian tactician appointed in May 2021, has overseen a squad rejuvenation. He handed debuts to young talents such as Thalente Mbatha, Oswin Appollis and Evidence Makgopa, all of whom played key roles in qualification. This culture shift led to a third-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), and the team is expected to contend for the title at the next AFCON in December 2025 and January 2026 in Morocco.

World Cup 2026 Group Stage Fixtures

South Africa have been drawn in a group with Mexico, Czechia and Korea Republic. Their matches are as follows:

• 11 June: Mexico v South Africa – Mexico City Stadium
• 18 June: Czechia v South Africa – Atlanta Stadium
• 24 June: South Africa v Korea Republic – Estadio Monterrey

Key Players and Squad

Captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, dynamic midfielder Teboho Mokoena and Burnley striker Lyle Foster are key figures in Broos' squad. Williams and Mokoena are among eight players from Mamelodi Sundowns, the club that impressed neutrals at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 with their attacking style. Orlando Pirates also contribute eight players, including exciting forward Oswin Appollis. The full squad announcement is pending.

World Cup History

South Africa have now qualified for four World Cups: 1998, 2002, 2010 and 2026. Their best performance came in 2002, when they finished 17th overall. That campaign featured their first World Cup victory, a 1-0 win over Slovenia courtesy of a fourth-minute goal by Siyabonga Nomvete. They also drew 2-2 with Paraguay but lost 3-2 to Spain, exiting on tiebreakers. In 2010 as hosts, they failed to advance from the group stage but earned a 1-1 draw with Mexico and a 2-1 win over France. Their overall World Cup record stands at nine matches: two wins, four draws and three losses, with 11 goals scored and 16 conceded.

Coach's Ambition

Broos, who previously coached Cameroon, has set a target of reaching the knockout rounds for the first time. The team's recent AFCON success and the influx of young talent have raised expectations. The Bafana Bafana will aim to build on their historic qualification and make a mark in North America.