With Hugo Broos announcing his preliminary Bafana Bafana squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, here are 10 players who were left out by the Belgian tactician.
The absences of Thembinkosi Lorch and Gift Links were pretty much expected after Broos previously explained why he didn’t see either as part of his plans.
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Lorch, though has had an impressive campaign, writing headlines at the FIFA Club World Cup and Wydad Athletic Club in the first half before making a switch to Rulani Mokwena’s Al Ittihad in Libya.
Links, meanwhile, helped his side Aarhus Gymnastikforening to lift their first Danish league title in 40 years and has been nominated for the Player of the Season.
Mamelodi Sundowns defenders Keanu Cupido and Grant Kekana also didn’t make the selection, despite loud calls from their club coach Miguel Cardoso, especially for the latter.
Another big omission is the exclusion of Mohau Nkota, who appeared nailed on about a year ago but somehow lost his place after also fading performances in Saudi Arabia despite an impressive start at Al-Ettifaq.
Siyabonga Ngezana‘s injury troubles seem to have been behind his omission, as he also lost his spot in the FCSB line-up, with club officials stating the former Kaizer Chiefs defender refused to undergo surgery.
Bongokuhle Hlongwane doesn’t seem to have impressed Broos’ during his recent call-up in March, while Sipho Mbule‘s lack of game-time seems to have ended his chances.
Elias Mokwana, who was still part of the Bafana squad at the Africa Cup of Nations also didn’t make the selection, while Percy Tau’s absence doesn’t surprise anymore after his career has moved him to Qatar and Vietnam.
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