Bradley Cross and Olwethu Makhanya could hardly contain their excitement when they learned they had made Hugo Broos’ final 26‑man Bafana Bafana World Cup squad. The two uncapped youngsters, unveiled on Wednesday, instantly became the talk of the press room in Johannesburg, their smiles a clear sign that a lifelong Dream had finally materialised.
Both players spoke candidly to the media on Thursday, underscoring how the call‑up represents the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice and, in Makhanya’s case, an overseas adventure that began in the United States. Their inclusion adds fresh depth to a squad that will battle for glory across venues in Canada, Mexico and the United States later this year.
Positions and squad depth
| Player | Primary Position | Alternative Role | Club (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olwethu Makhanya | Centre‑back | – | Philadelphia Union (MLS) |
| Bradley Cross | Left‑back | Centre‑back | Kaizer Chiefs (PSL) |
The table highlights the versatility both newcomers bring. Makhanya’s presence offers a reliable cover at the heart of defence, while Cross provides the left flank with a left‑back who can seamlessly shift into a central role if injuries force a reshuffle.
Key takeaway: The duo’s flexibility gives coach Broos tactical breathing room, especially after Aubrey Modiba’s hamstring injury forced a re‑evaluation of defensive options ahead of the tournament.
Makhanya, who spent the past three seasons with the Philadelphia Union, described the selection as “a dream come true” and a “huge honour for my family”. He recounted the emotional roller‑coaster of waiting for that phone call, saying the news arrived “as a surprise, but with a wave of pride and gratitude”. The 23‑year‑old reflected on his journey from reserve football in the United States to the senior national team, emphasizing how each step has built his confidence.
“Leaving South Africa at a young age was daunting,” Makhanya explained, “but the experience of breaking into the first team abroad has shaped me into the player I am today.” He also paid tribute to former Union coach Bradley Carnell, who was dismissed just days before the squad announcement, noting that Carnell’s guidance in “both football and life” had been instrumental in his development.
Cross, a product of Kaizer Chiefs’ academy, echoed a similar sentiment of perseverance. Having featured for South Africa at under‑20 level at just 16, he said his ambition has always been to don the senior shirt. “I’ve been in the preliminary squad many times,” he said. “I told myself I had to work harder, prove I belong.” The left‑back’s disciplined approach—steering clear of social‑media distractions and focusing on daily training—has paid dividends, earning him a spot alongside seasoned internationals.
What Broos’ selection says about Bafana Bafana’s strategy
Coach Hugo Broos revealed that the two newcomers were chosen not merely as placeholders but as integral pieces of a broader tactical plan. With the tournament’s demanding travel schedule and the potential for injuries, depth across the defensive line is paramount. Broos highlighted Makhanya’s “physical presence” and Cross’s “pace and adaptability” as assets that align with his vision of a balanced, high‑pressing side.
The inclusion of uncapped talent also signals a shift towards nurturing home‑grown players who have proven themselves abroad. By blending experienced campaigners with fresh faces, Broos hopes to inject vitality and unpredictability into Bafana Bafana’s playbook.
Where fans can catch every moment
South African supporters eager to follow the FIFA World Cup 2026™ can tune in via DStv’s comprehensive package offerings. All matches will be broadcast live on DStv Premium, Compact Plus, Compact, Family and Access, with streaming available through the DStv Stream app for mobile viewing.
| Package | Live Broadcast | Streaming Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Premium | All matches | DStv Stream |
| Compact Plus | All matches | DStv Stream |
| Compact | All matches | DStv Stream |
| Family | All matches | DStv Stream |
| Access | All matches | DStv Stream |
Key takeaway: Regardless of subscription level, South Africans will have uninterrupted access to every Bafana Bafana game, ensuring the nation can rally behind the squad wherever the tournament takes them.
As the men’s national team prepares to set foot on North American soil, the excitement surrounding Cross and Makhanya is more than just personal triumph. Their stories embody the hopes of countless young South Africans dreaming of one day representing Bafana Bafana World Cup squad on the world stage. Whether defending the backline against football’s powerhouses or providing crucial cover when injuries strike, the duo’s inclusion could prove pivotal in South Africa’s quest for World Cup success.