The suspense is almost over for some Orlando Pirates players, as they await the announcement of coach Hugo Broos’s final Bafana Bafana squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The squad is expected to be named on Wednesday, 27 May, and it is likely that Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns will dominate the selection, given their strong performances in the local league, with the World Cup set to kick off on 11 June.
Orlando Pirates Set For Strong Representation
Six Orlando Pirates players were included in Hugo Broos’s last 23-man squad for the international friendlies against Panama, and they are: Nkosinathi Sibisi, Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis, Evidence Makgopa, Tshepang Moremi, and Thalente Mbatha.
Based on current form, these players remain strong contenders for the final World Cup squad, with Mofokeng and Appollis being almost certain to make the cut.
Chaine Makes A Strong Case For Selection
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine could yet force his way back into contention, after missing out on the last squad due to disciplinary issues. Chaine has kept 20 clean sheets in 29 Betway Premiership matches this season, which strengthens his case for inclusion in the national set-up.
However, he faces stiff competition from Kaizer Chiefs captain Brandon Petersen, as well as established international goalkeepers Ronwen Williams and Ricardo Goss, with only three goalkeepers expected to be selected.
Disappointment Looms For Some Buccaneers Stars
Unfortunately, not every Orlando Pirates player will make the final cut, with Kabelo Dlamini appearing highly unlikely to feature, after falling out of favour with both Hugo Broos and Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
Additionally, Patrick Maswanganyi faces an uphill battle, although he still has an outside chance, and three Orlando Pirates players will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
