Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has announced his final 23-man squad for next week’s decisive World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda, matches that will determine South Africa’s path to the 2026 tournament.

The squad sees continuity from recent camps but also some important changes. Polokwane City’s Thabang Matuludi has earned his first call-up under Broos, while midfielder Sphephelo Sithole returns after a long leg injury. Sipho Mbule retains his spot following a solid showing in September.

The announcement comes against a fraught backdrop. FIFA recently docked South Africa three points for fielding an ineligible Teboho Mokoena in March, overturning a 2–0 victory over Lesotho into a 3–0 defeat. The sanction has left Bafana second in Group C with 14 points, tied with Benin but behind on goal difference. Only group winners qualify directly for the World Cup, while runners-up face a play-off to stay in contention.

Broos said earlier that the players understand the magnitude of the task. The home fixture against Zimbabwe on 10 October at Moses Mabhida Stadium and the clash with Rwanda on 14 October at Mbombela will be decisive in shaping South Africa’s campaign.

With little margin for error, the team will need sharp performances and maximum points to avoid leaving qualification hopes to the lottery of play-offs. For Broos, the balance of fresh faces and experienced regulars may prove the difference between celebration and heartbreak.