2026 FIFA World Cup: Broos Drops Pirates Star In Shock Bafana Squad Axe

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has delivered a brutal reminder that no name is safe as he axed an Orlando Pirates star and trimmed his squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a bold move on Thursday, Broos reduced his squad to 23 players for the upcoming friendlies against Panama and the biggest shock is the exclusion of goalkeeper Sipho Chaine.

Despite being a regular in recent camps, Chaine has been dropped without hesitation and replaced by Sekhukhune United goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner, who joins Ronwen Williams and Ricardo Goss.

The Belgian coach made it clear that form and game time matter more than reputation.

Sipho Mbule misses out after struggling for consistent minutes while Siyabonga Ngezana is sidelined due to injury concerns.

This is a ruthless selection and a clear warning to every player hoping to make the World Cup squad.

While some players fall, others rise.

Themba Zwane headlines a powerful return alongside Jayden Adams, Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Thapelo Maseko.

Broos is building a squad that blends experience with explosive attacking options.

The coach has also injected fresh talent into the team.

Ime Okon from Hannover 96 strengthens the defence while Mbekezeli Mbokazi arrives from Chicago Fire in the United States.

Rising stars Mohau Nkota and Thabang Matuludi have done enough to retain their places.

In a major talking point, Kaizer Chiefs have no players in the final 23, confirming a clear shift in power toward Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates and overseas based players.

These matches are more than preparation games. They are final auditions before South Africa faces Mexico in the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener.

Broos said the team is searching for the final pieces needed to compete on the global stage.

For those left out, time is running out. The opportunity to secure a place in the World Cup squad is quickly closing.

MATCH DETAILS

Friday 27 March
Bafana Bafana vs Panama
Moses Mabhida Stadium Durban at 7pm

Tuesday 31 March
Bafana Bafana vs Panama
DHL Stadium Cape Town at 7.30pm

FINAL 23 MAN SQUAD

Goalkeepers
Ronwen Williams, Ricardo Goss, Renaldo Leaner

Defenders
Khuliso Mudau, Thabang Matuludi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane, Ime Okon, Samukele Kabini, Mbekezeli Mbokazi

Midfielders
Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams, Thalente Mbatha, Sphephelo Sithole

Forwards
Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Lyle Foster, Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Relebohile Mofokeng, Themba Zwane, Thapelo Maseko