KAIZER CHIEFS duo of Thabiso Momyane and Bradley Cross face stiff competition in Bafana Bafana final World Cup squad.
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The Kaizer Chiefs duo of left-back Bradley Cross and right-back Thabiso Monyane have impressed in recent months for their club and, as a result, have been rewarded with call-ups to the Bafana Bafana preliminary squad. However, they face slim chances of making the final 26-man squad set for the Americas.
Bafana coach Hugo Broos will announce his final 26-man World Cup squad at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House, part of the Union Buildings, on Wednesday evening.
Cross and Monyane have been a reliable for Kazier Chiefs in the recently wrapped season, helping the side to their best finish in over five years.
Despite this, though, Broos is expected to stick with his tried-and-tested duo of Samukele Kabini and Aubrey Modiba — with the latter a guaranteed starter when fit. Here are the reasons why:
Kabini (Molde FK) — Kabini offers a more dynamic but aggressive profile. Across the 2025 and early 2026 seasons, he has provided a sharper attacking threat from the flank, registering four assists and a goal during his tenure. He was also part of the 2025 Bafana AFCON squad.
Modiba (Mamelodi Sundowns) — Modiba’s influence continues to stretch across both defence and midfield, giving the team flexibility and creativity down the left side. For Bafana Bafana, Modiba’s versatility remains crucial, offering multiple tactical options depending on the opposition and game plan. He missed Sundowns' last match due to a suspected hamstring injury, but no updates have been reported since he hobbled off in the Champions League first leg two weeks ago.
Monyane (Kaizer Chiefs) — Making 20 appearances for Chiefs, he is known for clean, structured play. He has also secured seven clean sheets and provided two assists.
Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City) — Matuludi was a vital, heavy-duty engine for City, playing 23 matches. He offered a higher goalscoring threat with two goals and was part of the 2026 Bafana AFCON squad.
Kamogelo Sebelebele (Orlando Pirates) — Sebelebele emerged as the most lethal attacking defender last season, netting four goals and an assist. He missed out on the 2025 AFCON squad but made appearances during the World Cup qualifiers.
Khuliso Mudau (Mamelodi Sundowns) — Mudau has become one of the most consistent full-backs in African football, and his Champions League campaign reflected exactly why. Strong in one-on-one situations, disciplined defensively, and intelligent in his forward movement, he is a sure starter for both club and country.