South Africa compete in Group One of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Record:
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AFCON winners in 1996
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Best World Cup finish: Group stage in 1998, 2002, and 2010
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FIFA ranking: 60
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Last World Cup appearance: 2010
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Nickname: Bafana Bafana
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Top clubs: Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs
Qualification: South Africa secured their place at the finals with a 3–0 win over Rwanda on 14 October 2025 in the final round of African qualifying. The victory saw Bafana Bafana top their group ahead of Nigeria, who failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Coach: Since taking charge in 2021, former Belgian international Hugo Broos (74) has revived the South African national team, guiding them to the AFCON 2023 semi-finals. However, allegations of racism and sexism, alongside an AFCON 2025 round-of-16 exit against Cameroon, have tarnished his reputation. The former Anderlecht defender also managed Cameroon, surprisingly guiding them to the 2017 AFCON title with a squad considered outsiders.
Star player: Lyle Foster (25) is the only player in the squad competing in one of Europe's top five leagues. Despite Burnley's relegation to the Championship, the striker featured in 26 Premier League matches, scoring three goals and providing two assists. He will be supported in attack by Orlando Pirates winger Oswin Appollis, who scored twice at the recent AFCON in Morocco.
Ambitions: In their fourth World Cup, Bafana Bafana aim to advance from the group stage for the first time in their history, in a group alongside Mexico, South Korea, and the Czech Republic.