South Africa Vs Nigeria - Hugo Broos names squad to battle Eric Chelle's Super Eagles in 2026 WCQ

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has unveiled his preliminary squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

Young talents Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates), and Bradley Cross and Mduduzi Shabalala (Kaizer Chiefs) have been selected.

As expected, Mamelodi Sundowns dominate the provisional squad, with the club’s top stars again forming the backbone of the national team.

Two Sundowns players, however, have raised concerns. Khuliso Mudau has yet to feature for his club this season, while Themba Zwane is sidelined after suffering an injury in the recent clash against Pirates.

Bafana Bafana currently lead Group C with 13 points from six matches, putting them in a strong position to reach their first World Cup since hosting the tournament in 2010.

Rwanda trails in second with eight points, while Nigeria’s Super Eagles sit in fourth on seven points after six matches.

The reverse fixture between the Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana ended in a 1-1 draw in Uyo, with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru cancelling out South Africa’s opener.

Broos will now be tasked with trimming the preliminary squad down to 23 players closer to the September fixtures, as South Africa aim to consolidate their place at the top of the group.