Malibongwe Khoza Opens Up on Bafana Bafana’s Hopes of Qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Malibongwe Khoza has discussed Bafana Bafana's chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after dropping points against Zimbabwe
- South Africa's chances of qualifying for the World Cup next year are now dependent on the result between Nigeria and the Benin Republic
- Khoza has the chance to make the starting line-up in Bafana Bafana's must-win encounter against Rwanda on Tuesday
PAY ATTENTION: You can now search for all your favourite news and topics on Briefly News.
Mamelodi Sundowns star Malibongwe Khoza has reflected on South Africa’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by three North American nations (the USA, Canada, and Mexico) next year. He also shared insight into his rapid growth within the highly competitive setup at Premier Soccer League giants Mamelodi Sundowns.
Source: Getty Images
The 21-year-old has experienced a remarkable journey, from forcing his way into the club’s reserve side as a midfielder to successfully transitioning into a centre defender and also making it into the first team. At one point, he was close to joining Cape Town City, but Mamelodi Sundowns stepped in at the last moment to secure his future with a new contract.
Hugo Broos called up Khoza for the match against Zimbabwe and Rwanda, and he was on the bench in the first game against the Warriors, with the hope of playing the second tie on Tuesday.
Khoza speaks on qualifying for World Cup
Khoza is looking forward to representing Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but South Africa's chances of qualifying for the global football tournament became slim after they dropped points against Zimbabwe on Friday, October 10, 2025.
DON'T MISS IT: Stay Away From Fake News With Our Short, Free Fact-Checking Course. Join And Get Certified!
“It would mean so much to me, not just personally, but for my parents, my club, and everyone who has supported me. I don’t only represent myself; I represent my family and my country,” Khoza said when asked about the possibility of helping Bafana Bafana reach the World Cup.
Bafana Bafana must better the Benin Republic’s result to finish top of Group C and secure automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Khoza could play a crucial role, though he faces strong competition from Nkosinathi Sibisi for a starting berth.
Mbekezeli Mbokazi's suspension after being sent off against Zimbabwe could give the Sundowns defender another opportunity to play in the last qualifiers.
Source: Getty Images
Despite his youth, the Sundowns defender has shown impressive composure and leadership, which he credits to both his upbringing and the professional environment at Masandawana, where he developed through the club’s ranks.
Here is what Bafana Bafana fans are saying on Khoza's chances of playing against Rwanda on Tuesday, October 14, 2025;
Serame Sereke said:
"You might see Mbokazi play next week Tuesday 😂🤣 this south Africa 🇿🇦 bro."
EL Espolon wrote:
"We will qualify boy don't worry haters will eat a humble pie."
Mzansi Football trolled:
"With that Orlando Pirates fan called Vincent tseka who's the team manager you might see Mbokasi playing next week Tuesday."
Faustino Sanchez Godoy shared:
"Very humble and respectful young man, deserves everything good that’s coming to him ✨."
Motho wa Modimo commented:
"Watch this boy on Tuesday ❤️🙌🏾 Rise Mali Rise."
Williams speaks ahead of Bafana vs Rwanda
Briefly News earlier reported that Ronwen Williams has talked tough ahead of the Bafana Bafana must-win clash against Rwanda.
The Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper admitted the chances of qualifying for the World Cup is harder after the goalless draw against Zimbabwe.
PAY ATTENTION: Follow Briefly News on Twitter and never miss the hottest topics! Find us at @brieflyza!
Source: Briefly News
