South Africa
Group A · FIFA rank 58 · World Cup 2026
Eliminated in the round of 32
Lost 0-1 to Canada
South Africa are out, beaten 1-0 by Canada in the round of 32.
It took a wonder-goal in the very last minute to knock them out, so they can hold their heads high.
Back at the World Cup for the first time since 2010, this was still a proud run for the whole country.
South Africa's 2026 World Cup matches
See the full Group A standings →South Africa squad and manager
Manager: Hugo Broos
| 👕 No. | 🧑 Player | 🛡️ Club |
|---|---|---|
| Goalkeepers (3) | ||
| 1 | Ronwen Williams | Mamelodi Sundowns |
| 16 | Sipho Chaine | Orlando Pirates |
| 22 | Ricardo Goss | Siwelele |
| Defenders (10) | ||
| 2 | Thabang Matuludi | Polokwane City |
| 3 | Khulumani Ndamane | Mamelodi Sundowns |
| 6 | Aubrey Modiba | Mamelodi Sundowns |
| 14 | Mbekezeli Mbokazi | Chicago Fire FC |
| 18 | Samukele Kabini | Molde |
| 19 | Nkosinathi Sibisi | Orlando Pirates |
| 20 | Khuliso Mudau | Mamelodi Sundowns |
| 21 | Ime Okon | Hannover 96 |
| 24 | Olwethu Makhanya | Philadelphia Union |
| 26 | Bradley Cross | Kaizer Chiefs |
| Midfielders (5) | ||
| 4 | Teboho Mokoena | Mamelodi Sundowns |
| 5 | Thalente Mbatha | Orlando Pirates |
| 11 | Themba Zwane | Mamelodi Sundowns |
| 13 | Sphephelo Sithole | Tondela |
| 23 | Jayden Adams | Mamelodi Sundowns |
| Forwards (8) | ||
| 7 | Oswin Appollis | Orlando Pirates |
| 8 | Tshepang Moremi | Orlando Pirates |
| 9 | Lyle Foster | Burnley |
| 10 | Relebohile Mofokeng | Orlando Pirates |
| 12 | Thapelo Maseko | AEL Limassol |
| 15 | Iqraam Rayners | Mamelodi Sundowns |
| 17 | Evidence Makgopa | Orlando Pirates |
| 25 | Kamogelo Sebelebele | Orlando Pirates |
South Africa at the World Cup
- FIFA ranking
- #58
- World Cup appearance
- 4th
- Best finish
- Group stage
- Confederation
- CAF
- Group
- Group A
How did South Africa's World Cup run end?
South Africa are out, but they leave with real pride after a brave run.
They were the lowest-ranked team in Group A, yet they fought their way to a 2nd-place finish and reached the knockouts.
In the round of 32 they met co-hosts Canada, and they defended brilliantly for almost the whole game.
It was still 0-0 deep into the second half, and a penalty shootout felt close.
Then Canada's Stephen Eustaquio hit a stunning long-range volley in the very last minute to win it 1-0.
There was nothing South Africa could do about a goal like that, so it is a cruel way to go out.
This was mostly a home-based squad led by captain and keeper Ronwen Williams, and they showed real character.
Coach Hugo Broos is 73 and this was likely his last job, so reaching the knockouts meant a lot to him.
Reaching the round of 32 as the underdog of their group is a result to be proud of.
The mood is heartbreak mixed with hope, because the future looks bright for this young team.
South Africa's recent results
- W1-0JamaicaJune 6, 2026Friendly
- D0-0NicaraguaMay 29, 2026Friendly
Last 12 months before the tournament. Source: international match records.
Common questions
Which group were South Africa in at the 2026 World Cup?
South Africa were in Group A with Mexico, South Korea and Czech Republic. They finished 2nd in the group.
Who is South Africa's manager?
South Africa are managed by Hugo Broos.
What is South Africa's best World Cup result?
South Africa's best ever World Cup result is reaching the round of 32, which they did in 2026.
Are South Africa still in the 2026 World Cup?
No, South Africa were knocked out in the round of 32 by Canada.
What is South Africa's FIFA ranking?
South Africa are ranked 58 in the FIFA world rankings.