FIFA World Cup 2026: South Africa’s fixtures, group, squad and players to watch
South Africa return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 2010, with Hugo Broos' side aiming to make history at football's biggest tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Bafana Bafana secured qualification after topping their CAF qualifying group and arrive at the finals on the back of a resurgence that has reignited belief among South African football supporters.
Drawn in Group A alongside co-hosts Mexico, Czechia and South Korea, South Africa face a challenging but navigable path as they look to reach the knockout stages for the first time in their history.
Which group are South Africa in?
South Africa have been placed in Group A alongside:
Mexico
Czechia
South Korea
Mexico enter the tournament as one of the host nations, while Czechia and South Korea provide stern opposition in what many view as a balanced group.
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South Africa fixtures at the FIFA World Cup 2026
Mexico vs South Africa
Date: June 11
Venue: Estadio Azteca, Mexico City
Czechia vs South Africa
Date: June 18
Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
South Africa vs South Korea
Date: June 25
Venue: Estadio BBVA, Monterrey
The tournament opener against Mexico could prove pivotal, with a positive result potentially shaping South Africa's entire campaign.
South Africa squad
Coach Hugo Broos has named a 26-man squad for the tournament, blending experienced internationals with emerging talent as Bafana Bafana prepare for their first World Cup appearance in 16 years.
Goalkeepers
Ronwen Williams
Sipho Chaine
Ricardo Goss
Defenders
Nkosinathi Sibisi
Khuliso Mudau
Aubrey Modiba
Bradley Cross
Olwethu Makhanya
Ime Okon
Samukele Kabini
Mbekezeli Mbokazi
Thabang Matuludi
Khulumani Ndamane
Kamogelo Sebelebele
Midfielders and forwards
Teboho Mokoena
Themba Zwane
Thalente Mbatha
Oswin Appollis
Relebohile Mofokeng
Tshepang Moremi
Lyle Foster
Iqraam Rayners
Evidence Makgopa
Thapelo Maseko
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Players to watch
Ronwen Williams
South Africa's captain remains one of the most important figures in the squad.
The goalkeeper's leadership, shot-stopping ability and penalty-saving heroics have been central to Bafana Bafana's recent rise, including their impressive AFCON campaign.
Teboho Mokoena
The midfield general continues to be one of South Africa's most influential players.
His ability to dictate tempo, break up attacks and contribute in possession will be crucial against stronger opposition.
Lyle Foster
The Burnley striker is expected to spearhead South Africa's attack.
Foster's pace, movement and experience in English football make him one of Bafana Bafana's biggest attacking threats heading into the tournament.
Relebohile Mofokeng
Few players generate as much excitement among South African supporters as Mofokeng.
The young attacker has emerged as one of the country's brightest prospects and could provide the creativity needed to unlock defences on the biggest stage.
What are South Africa's chances?
South Africa are unlikely to be considered among the tournament favourites, but Group A presents an opportunity.
Mexico will start as favourites to top the group, while Czechia and South Korea are established World Cup competitors.
However, Bafana Bafana's recent improvement under Broos means progression to the Round of 32 cannot be ruled out.
A place in the knockout stages would represent the greatest achievement in South Africa's World Cup history and further cement the progress made since Broos took charge of the national team.
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