Kaizer Chiefs left-back Bradley Cross has reflected on his experience at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Bafana Bafana while also breaking down Amakhosi’s focus for the upcoming season.
Cross recently rejoined his Chiefs teammates after being away with Bafana at the global showpiece, where South Africa made history by reaching the knockout stage for the first time.
The defender was the only Chiefs player to earn a Bafana call-up for the World Cup after producing impressive performances for the Soweto giants in the previous campaign as they finished third in the Betway Premiership table to qualify for the 2026/27 CAF Confederation Cup.
Cross featured in 28 appearances across all competitions for the Naturena-based side under co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, who have since parted ways with the club.
With Chiefs under the new leadership of Fernando Da Cruz, Cross will be aiming to establish himself as the first-choice left-back in the team. He will battle for a starting spot against Nkanyiso Shinga, promising youngster Kabelo Nkgwesa, and Paseka Mako, who is currently recovering from an injury sustained during the pre-season tour in Spain.
WHAT BRADLEY CROSS SAID ABOUT THE NEW SEASON’S PREPARATIONS
Reflecting on his experience at the World Cup, Cross expressed his delight at making the Bafana Bafana squad. He also opened up on Chiefs’ preparations for the new season, stating that they must build on their strengths and iron out their weaknesses to compete in the upcoming campaign.
“It was such a great experience and an honour to be part of the team that made history for South Africa,” said Cross. “The boys went out there to work hard, and we achieved our goal of advancing from the group phase, and I hope we made our people happy.”
Speaking on the mood in Chiefs’ camp, Cross said, “I can see the vibe in the squad is very good. The guys are gelling nicely together…”
He added: We are working hard trying to improve every day. I took some days off before I joined the team in Spain…So I’m going to keep going to get ready for the season.
“We just need to work as a team, build on our strengths, iron out our weaknesses, and give our best. It’s pre-season, so no matter the result, we will learn something, and I am looking forward to it.”
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