FIFA Ranking #59 · 4 World Cups · Best: Group Stage
The 2010 World Cup hosts return to the tournament for the first time since their home edition, qualifying through an energised AFCON campaign. Bafana Bafana will be cheered across an entire continent and possess the defensive solidity to frustrate better sides in Group I.
Group A opponents
Percy Tau
⭐ Star PlayerAl-Ahly
Forward / Winger
68
Caps
22
Goals
32
Age
South Africa's most experienced international attacker — quick, technically skilled, and capable of beating defenders on either flank.
Themba Zwane
Mamelodi Sundowns
Attacking Midfielder
45
Caps
14
Goals
32
Age
Mamelodi Sundowns' mercurial playmaker — South Africa's most creative domestic talent who orchestrates from the No. 10 position.
Bongani Zungu
Amiens SC
Midfielder
50
Caps
3
Goals
31
Age
Hardworking central midfielder who protects the defence and contributes to South Africa's rhythm in possession.
Ronwen Williams
Mamelodi Sundowns
Goalkeeper
38
Caps
0
Goals
32
Age
One of Africa's best goalkeepers — dominant in his area, reliable under pressure, and the backbone of Bafana Bafana's defensive system.
All times local to venue. Group stage results determine knockout seedings.
Mexico
FIFA #17
Estadio Azteca
Mexico City, Mexico
Czechia
FIFA #37
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Atlanta, GA
South Korea
FIFA #19
Estadio BBVA
Monterrey, Mexico
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4
Appearances
0
Titles
#59
FIFA Rank
Group Stage
Best Result
South Africa famously hosted the 2010 World Cup, becoming the first African nation to do so, and are the only host nation not to advance from the group stage — a painful memory. Their 1998 and 2002 appearances were modest but the nation's passion for the game is unrivalled in Africa.
Formation
Wide attacking triangle, pressing high up the pitch
Head Coach
Hugo Broos
Belgian · 4-3-3
Hugo Broos leads South Africa into the 2026 World Cup with a 4-3-3 system built around the squad's strengths.
The three teams South Africa must face in the group stage.
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