FIFA Club World Cup Overview

South African national team coach has officially unveiled his 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the return of Masandawana striker serving as the biggest talking point. The forward finds himself back in the international limelight after a difficult period that saw him sidelined during the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

The experienced coach has left supporters and pundits alike scratching their heads after including an uncapped duo in his final 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Belgian tactician, known for his firm convictions, officially unveiled his travelling party for the North American showpiece during a high-profile announcement at the Sefako M. Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse.

The national team coach has lifted the lid on the agonizing process that led to Downs star being sensationally omitted from South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad. The versatile speedster was a shock absentee when the final 26-man roster was unveiled, with a late injury concern forcing the Belgian tactician to make a heart-wrenching call at the eleventh hour.

The Belgian mentor has addressed the controversial decision to exclude the Amakhosi goalkeeper from South Africa’s final 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite a stellar domestic campaign that saw the shot-stopper emerge as one of the best in the Premier Soccer League, the tactician opted for other options for the tournament in North America.