World Cup Dream: Goss Eyes Bafana Final Squad Selection

Siwelele goalkeeper Ricardo Goss has targeted a spot in Hugo Broos’ final 26-man Bafana Bafana squad ahead of next month’s global showpiece, following a stellar domestic campaign featuring 14 clean sheets across all competitions.

Bafana Bafana coach Broos is expected to announce his definitive 26-man squad on Wednesday. Ahead of the final selection, South Africa will fine-tune their preparations with a warm-up match against Nicaragua at the Orlando Stadium on 29 May.

A Historic Race in the Goalkeeping Department

There is no disputing that Goss remains one of Broos’ most trusted defensive anchors. The keeper has enjoyed a stellar domestic campaign for Siwelele, registering an impressive 14 clean sheets across all competitions.

However, Broos faces an enviable selection headache due to unprecedented domestic competition. The race includes Kaizer Chiefs’ Brandon Petersen, who has stepped up significantly with crucial match-winning saves this season.

Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates’ Sipho Chaine—who missed out on the recent international friendlies against Panama—has delivered an extraordinary campaign, boasting 20 clean sheets of his own.

“No Pressure” Ahead of the Final Audition

Speaking to the media ahead of Siwelele’s final Betway Premiership clash against Sekhukhune United at the Peter Mokaba Stadium this Saturday, Goss remained grounded but highly motivated.

“I think it’s every footballer’s dream to represent the country, especially at the World Cup,” said Goss.

“It’s also my dream to actually partake in the World Cup, so no pressure.”

The experienced keeper noted that the looming global showpiece has dramatically driven up the standard of domestic goalkeeping.

“Obviously, it has been difficult,” added Goss.

“I think you can see the quality of goalkeeping this season has gone up a bit. Even the number of clean sheets has increased. I don’t think we’ve had like more than 15 clean sheets for three goalkeepers in one season. It’s a challenge, hopefully there is a World Cup every year, so the league and the standard go a bit high.”

“It has been a challenge and an interesting one because there are quite a lot of us that has put up our names in the hat and we are just waiting for next week and see how that goes,” he concluded.