The story
The South Africa national football team, affectionately known to their passionate supporters as the Bafana Bafana, enter the FIFA World Cup 2026 with high expectations. Currently ranked number 60 in the world, they bring a unique tactical identity and style from CAF to this expanded 48-team tournament.
An underdog with golden-generation flashes, dreaming of a first knockout appearance.
With the tournament co-hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, South Africa will count on their travelling support to create a vibrant atmosphere. Their primary objective will be to make a statement in Group A and navigate their way to the high-stakes knockout rounds.
What to watch
Keep a close eye on their transition play in Group A. The connection between Lyle Foster and Percy Tau is crucial to their attacking spark.
X-factor
Lyle Foster - the clinical striker who holds the ability to turn a match on its head with a single moment of magic.
South Africa are poised to be one of the most intriguing stories of the group stage, bringing great energy to the tournament.
Their fixtures
Mexique 
Afrique du Sud Mexique 2-0 Afrique du Sud
Mexique 2-0 Afrique du Sud. Groupe A. Estadio Azteca, Mexico. jeu. 11 juin.
Tchéquie Afrique du Sud Tchéquie 1-1 Afrique du Sud
Tchéquie 1-1 Afrique du Sud. Groupe A. Estadio Akron, Guadalajara. jeu. 18 juin.
Corée du Sud Afrique du Sud Corée du Sud 0-1 Afrique du Sud
Corée du Sud 0-1 Afrique du Sud. Groupe A. Estadio Akron, Guadalajara. lun. 22 juin.
Canada Afrique du Sud Canada 1-0 Afrique du Sud
Canada 1-0 Afrique du Sud. Huitièmes de poule (32). BMO Field, Toronto. dim. 28 juin.