Mamelodi Sundowns Players Named in South Africa World Cup 2026 Squad
Mamelodi Sundowns have a strong presence in South Africa’s preliminary 32-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, with nine players from the Pretoria club included by head coach Hugo Broos.
Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, midfielder Teboho Mokoena, and winger Themba Zwane are among the most recognisable Sundowns names in the group. Their selection underlines just how important the club has been to Bafana Bafana’s return to the world stage for the first time since 2010.
The Sundowns Players Who Made the List
Broos has drawn heavily from Sundowns across all positions. Williams, one of the most trusted goalkeepers in the squad, is included between the posts.
In defence, Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, and Khulumani Ndamane all earned their places. The midfield sees Mokoena joined by Jayden Adams, giving Sundowns two options in the engine room. Further forward, Zwane is named alongside striker Iqraam Rayners and winger Thapelo Morena.
That is nine Sundowns players in total, spread across every line of the team. It is a clear sign of how much Broos relies on players who know each other well and work within a system built on organisation and discipline.
Broos Backs Structure Over Star Power
The Belgian coach has been open about his approach. Earlier this year, he said he was prioritising structure, discipline, and squad harmony over individual talent. That thinking is clearly reflected in this squad selection.
Gift Links, Percy Tau, and Thembinkosi Lorch were all left out, as was widely expected. Broos had previously explained why those players had drifted out of his plans.
Two other notable absences are winger Mohau Nkota and defender Siyabonga Ngezana. Nkota, 21, had been seen as one of the exciting young faces of the national team, but his form and influence at Al Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia has dropped over the past six months. Ngezana, 28, has been dealing with injury problems at FCSB and has fallen out of the picture despite reportedly being willing to play his way into contention.
The Wider Squad Picture
Beyond the Sundowns contingent, the squad includes other well-known names. Burnley forward Lyle Foster is named, along with Orlando Pirates players Oswin Appollis, Evidence Makgopa, and Relebohile Mofokeng. Chicago Fire defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi is also included and has been highlighted as one of the standout names in the group.
There are also a few surprise inclusions. Brandon Petersen, Sipho Chaine, and Lebo Maboe were all named despite missing out on the March international break.
Camp Dates and the Road to the Final Squad
The 24 locally based players will report for camp in Johannesburg on May 25. Sundowns players and those based abroad will arrive later as they finish their club seasons.
Broos will name the final 26-man squad on Wednesday May 27, meaning six players from this preliminary group of 32 will miss out.
Before the tournament begins, South Africa will face Nicaragua in a warm-up match on May 29.
South Africa’s World Cup 2026 Group Fixtures
Bafana Bafana have been placed in Group A and face a demanding set of opening fixtures.
They begin against co-hosts Mexico on June 11 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Next up is Czechia in Atlanta on June 18, before the group stage concludes against South Korea in Guadalajara on June 24.
FAQ:
How many Mamelodi Sundowns players are in South Africa’s World Cup 2026 squad?
Nine Sundowns players are in the preliminary 32-man squad: Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane, Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams, Themba Zwane, Iqraam Rayners, and Thapelo Morena.
When will the final South Africa World Cup squad be announced?
The final 26-man squad will be announced on Wednesday May 27, after Broos cuts six players from the preliminary group of 32.
What are South Africa’s World Cup 2026 group fixtures?
Bafana Bafana face Mexico on June 11, Czechia on June 18, and South Korea on June 24, all in Group A.
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