Although much has been expected from the 22-year-old, he has ended up attracting more criticism than praise. After wasting quite a number of chances against Stellenbosch in a Nedbank Cup encounter, his performance was again negatively scrutinised. But there is hope for the South African star; he has been tipped to become a top goal scorer and even a dependable Bafana asset.
The 20-year-old surprised everyone when his move to MLS was announced in December 2025 shortly before the 2025 Carling Knockout Cup final where he captained his side to victory against Marumo Gallants. In a year in which he had broken into the Bucs first team and Hugo Broos Bafana Bafana set up as a teenager, it was expected that a European football would be his next destination.
The veteran 73-year-old Belgian did not approve of the former Orlando Pirates defender's move to Major League Soccer, which he felt was a waste. He felt the youngster's agent was driven by greed and naivety as opposed to the player's growth in football. The South Africa coach believes TLB is ripe for Europe owing to his talent.
As the Sea Robbers chase domestic trophies on two fronts, players face stiff competition for starting slots. One of the positions that is highly contested in the Buccaneers setup is the creative role behind the strikers, a duty that is considered crucial for any team to function seamlessly. The slot was strengthened in the off-season window, and another top star was added in January, making the contest even tighter.
Although the continental competition took place last year in August, the matter of unpaid bonuses only resurfaced five days ago when Neo Maema revealed they are yet to receive a penny. According to the players' association's top official, they have escalated the matter to the South African Football Association with a view of resolving it once and for all.
This is Legacy, GOAL’s podcast and feature series to mark the countdown to the 2026 World Cup. Each week, we explore the stories and the spirit behind the nations that define the world’s game. This week, we travel to Mexico, the only country to host three World Cups. From Pele’s triumph in 1970 to Diego Maradona’s magic in 1986, and now to the celebration set for 2026, it’s the story of a nation where football is not just played, but lived; a land of goals, history, and unending passion.
South Africa are among the teams that will compete in the global competition scheduled for June. Mzansi will represent the continent alongside eight other nations that secured an automatic spot for the tournament. However, the Belgian tactician might have to do without one of his stars, who has suffered a nasty injury.
The midfielder finds himself in an Amakhosi side that has struggled to supply players to the South Africa national team, while teammates Inacio Miguel and Glody Lilepo have also lost their places in the Angola and DR Congo teams, respectively. However, the 22-year-old has remained in contention at international level under the watch of Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos.
South Africa are already deep into planning for the global football tournament to be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, lining up key preparation matches to sharpen themselves into a highly competitive outfit. Their choice of opponents could be something that might spark some fierce debate. They will be playing in this tournament for the first time since 2010 when they participated as hosts.
The former Premier League outfit Fulham and Morocco defender has been giving players chances to prove their worth at the Sea Robbers. However, he has also made some daring calls like letting the South Africa international striker leave in the recent transfer window. The 47-year-old tactician has now justified his decision.
The former Leeds United star has recently emerged as a potential candidate to lead the South African Football Association. The 56-year-old has not formally confirmed any interest in the role. However, he has been vocal about the changes needed in Mzansi football and praised Bafana's current state.
The Glamour Boys have been doing quite well this season, as players continue proving their doubters wrong. Bafana Bafana are among the teams that will feature in the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Amakhosi players hope to be considered for the global tournament.
Obed Vargas is set for a major step forward, leaving the Seattle Sounders to join Atlético Madrid. While several LaLiga clubs had expressed interest in a potential loan move, Atlético plan to keep the 20-year-old midfielder in Madrid, where he is expected to join the first team. Vargas impressed as a homegrown player for Seattle, making 91 appearances.
AC Milan striker Santiago Gimenez has jokingly declared that he is prepared to “kill” club colleague Christian Pulisic if Mexico cross paths with the USMNT on 2026 World Cup duty. The pair have struck up quite the bond at San Siro, as they regularly watch NFL action together, but friendship will be put to one side if they lock horns in the international arena.
Mexican striker Julián Quiñones continues his red-hot run in the Saudi Pro League, scoring his 17th goal of the season in Al-Qadsiah’s draw against league leaders Al-Hilal. His powerful header in the 76th minute extended his scoring streak to eight straight matches and temporarily lifted him above Cristiano Ronaldo in the Golden Boot race.
The 29-year-old has been based in Europe since 2016, building a solid career abroad. During his decade overseas, his journey has taken him through Sweden, Portugal and Israel, before settling in Cyprus over the past four years. He now joins a club soaked in success, having been crowned champions of Cyprus on 21 occasions.
The Soweto giants have been one of the Premier Soccer League teams that have not been active in strengthening their squad. However, they have made a vital decision that will see them continue pushing for the major honors as well as set a strong foundation for the new campaign. Apart from the domestic competitions, Amakhosi are chasing the CAF Confederation Cup.
Mexico wrapped up their first short preparation tour of 2026 with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Bolivia, giving manager Javier Aguirre two victories from two matches using an all–Liga MX squad. Playing in extreme heat and hostile conditions, El Tri faced a physical Bolivian side that pushed them to the limit before Germán Berterame delivered the decisive moment.
AC Milan striker Santiago Giménez believes Mexico can defy expectations and lift the World Cup in 2026. Motivated by missing out on Qatar 2022, Giménez embraces his role as a dreamer and leader, convinced that belief, unity, and attacking partnerships - including a potential duo with Raúl Jiménez - can push El Tri toward a historic summer on home soil.
The 2026 World Cup will be unlike any before it - bigger in size and scope, without a clear favorite, and staged in some of the most iconic venues in world sport. Here’s everything worth knowing.
Mexican-American midfielder Obed Vargas is edging closer to a move to Europe, with reports suggesting a deal could be completed as early as next week. Despite interest from Liga MX sides such as Club América, the Seattle Sounders prospect remains focused on a European transfer as he pushes to strengthen his Mexico World Cup credentials.
Mic'd Up: The former USMNT striker talked about the pre-World Cup mindset, the U.S. striker situation and why Mexico will always be the team under the most pressure.
The January 2026 FIFA World Ranking was heavily influenced by the conclusion of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations, with several African nations making major gains. Senegal’s strong tournament run pushed them up seven places to 12th overall, directly affecting both the USMNT and Mexico, who dropped to 15th and 16th, respectively.
The Lions of Teranga controversially beat the Atlas Lions on Sunday night at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium to secure their second continental crown in the last three editions of Afcon. It was another sad and disappointing ending for the North African nation that last conquered Africa in 1976.
Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre has unveiled his squad for January friendlies against Panama and Bolivia, with Richard Ledezma and Brian Gutiérrez among the standout names. With no European-based players available outside the FIFA window, the call-up leans entirely on Liga MX talent as El Tri begin a key pre-World Cup evaluation phase.
Mexico
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