Having scouted matches across the country, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has announced a preliminary squad, which he will reduce to 23 players for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

New additions to the preliminary squad include Orlando Pirates right-back Deano van Rooyen, TS Galaxy defenders Samukele Kabini and Khulumane Ndamane, and Sekhukhune United midfielder Siphesihle Mkhize.

Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa, who has frequently been named in preliminary squads but has yet to make the final 23-man selection, is also included.

However, Percy Tau, Bafana Bafana’s vice-captain, is part of the side having moved from Al Ahly to Qatar SC recently.

Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams has been named in the squad despite his current injury at his club Mamelodi Sundowns. He is among the four goalkeepers selected, alongside Ricardo Goss of SuperSport United, Sipho Chaine of Orlando Pirates, and Sage Stephens of Stellenbosch.

Broos will finalize his 23-man squad in the coming weeks.

Bafana Bafana will host Lesotho in a FIFA World Cup qualifying Group C match at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on 17 March. They will then travel to face Benin on 24 March, with that match being played at a neutral venue in Ivory Coast.