Mkhokheli Dube, a former Chicago Fire FC striker, has revealed why the current Bafana Bafana squad under Hugo Broos is the most ‘blessed generation’ of all time.
Bafana have previously featured at the FIFA World Cup three times in 1998, 2002, and 2010 as hosts, and they are the lowest-ranked team in Group A of the 2026 edition.
They were drawn in Group A alongside Mexico, the Republic, and Czechia [Czech Republic]. Additionally, Bafana are banking on the spiral revival under the tutelage of veteran Belgian coach Broos.
In addition, the emergence of talented players like Chicago Fire’s centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Orlando Pirates playmaker Relebohile Mofokeng has also left Mzansi buzzing.
Furthermore, they will also be hoping their top stars, goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, striker Lyle Foster and Teboho Mokoena show their class at the global stage. Furthermore, the likes of Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Oswin Appollis will be expected to shine.
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And Dube, who spent significant time in the USA, at Chicago Fire FC, Coastal Carolina Chanticleers, Flint City Bucks FC and New England Revolution, regards Broos’ men as a ‘Blessed Bafana Bafana generation’.
“The current Bafana Bafana squad is blessed to be going to the World Cup; they’ve got an opportunity to play in a country that has its eyes on South Africa already,” Dube told FARPost.
“It’s a massive platform, and they need to capitalise on it. It’s now or never for some of these guys to breakthrough to other countries, to make a name for themselves, and to secure better deals. They are a golden generation, having done well in the last two AFCONs and reaching the World Cup – that’s no small feat.”
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In addition, Dube said this is a big opportunity for the PSL stars in the Bafana set-up to show the world that they can fit in other superior leagues.
“The reward for performing well is to be absorbed into superior leagues, where they’ll be playing against the best of the best. But that only happens if they bring their A-game to the World Cup,” added Dube.
“They need to be focused, determined, and hungry for success. Players like Mbokazi are doing wonders for South African football, marketing it big time, just like Bongokuhle Hlongwane has done over time. They are creating a pathway for others to follow, and that’s what it’s all about. American clubs will be glued to Bafana Bafana.
“This is a defining moment for South African football, and these players need to seize it. They’ve got the talent, they’ve got the drive, and they’ve got the opportunity. Now it’s time to deliver.”
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