On Wednesday, President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, organized a send-off dinner for the Bafana Bafana as they gear up for the FIFA World Cup 2026 which kicks off in June.
This was made known via a statement from the South African Presidency on Wednesday 27 May, 2026.
The send-off dinner is coming after head coach, Hugo Brooks, announced the final 26-player squad that will represent the country at the tournament.
The statement reads: “President @CyrilRamaphosa this evening leads the nation in rallying behind Bafana Bafana ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
“The send-off dinner also marks a significant moment for South African football as Head Coach Hugo Broos unveils the final 26-man squad that will carry the country’s hopes onto the global stage.”
The country stands with the Bafana Bafana as they fight for the World Cup trophy “with pride”, the Statement says.
Drawn in Group A, South Africa will play against Mexico, Czechia and South Korea on 11 June at 20:00 (WAT), 18 June at 17:00 (WAT), and 25 June at 02:00 (WAT) respectively.
The statement further reads: “South Africa stands united behind the team as they prepare to represent the nation with pride.”
South Africa 26-man squad for FIFA World Cup 2026
Goalkeepers
- Ronwen Williams
- Ricardo Goss
- Sipho Chaine
Defenders
- Khuliso Mudau
- Thabang Mutuludi
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi
- Olwethu Makhanya
- Nkosinathi Sibisi
- Kamogelo Sebelebele
- Bradley Cross
- Ime Okon
- Khulumane Ndamane
- Aubrey Modiba
- Samukele Kabini
Midfielders
- Teboho Mokoena
- Thalente Mbatha
- Jayden Adams
- Sphephelo Sithole
Forwards
- Oswin Appollis
- Iqraam Bayners
- Tshepang Moremi
- Relebohile Mofokeng
- Evidence Makgopa
- Themba Zwane
- Lyle Foster
- Thapelo Maseko
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be hosted in three [3] countries, the United States (US), Mexico and Canada. The tournament will kick off on June 11 and conclude on July 19, 2026.
Photo: Bafana Bafana of South Africa | Bafana Bafana/X
