No Foster, but Bafana boss summons rising stars Adams, Cross for FIFA World Cup qualifiers

Hugo Broos, the head coach of Bafana Bafana, has revealed his 23-man squad as they prepare to embark on the journey to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

The South Africans are in Group C alongside Nigeria, Rwanda, Zimbabwe Lesotho and Benin.

In their pursuit of securing a spot in the World Cup, which is scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Broos's team kick-start their qualification campaign against Benin on Saturday, 18 November (15:00) at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

Subsequently, they will embark on a journey to Rwanda, engaging in a crucial match on Tuesday, 21 November (15:00 SA time) at the Huye Stadium in Butare.

Broos has tweaked his usual selection after draws against Eswathini (0-0) and Ivory Coast (1-1) last month. He confessed on Friday that this was due to injuries, lack of form, match fitness and unforeseen circumstances.

Lyle Foster has been omitted after his Premier League club, Burnley FC, confirmed that the striker is under special care after opening up about his mental health.

READ |  Burnley confirm Foster under specialist care as Bafana striker tackles mental health challenges

Bradley Cross (22) has received his first call-up after his consistent strong showing in Golden Arrows colours, while Broos named rising stars Jayden Adams (22) and Oswin Appolis (22) for a debut Bafana nod.  

Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Veli Mothwa (AmaZulu), Ricardo Goss (SuperSport United)

Defenders: Sydney Mobbie (Sekhukhune United), Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Grant Kekana, Mothobi Mvala (all Mamelodi Sundowns), Nkosinathi Sibisi (Orlando Pirates), Siyanda Xulu (SuperSport United), Bradley Cross (Golden Arrows)

Midfielders: Sphephelo Sithole (C.D. Tondela, Portugal),