MLS have tipped their hat to Bafana Bafana's Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Olwethu Makhanya after the duo made Hugo Broos' final World Cup squad. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Major League Soccer (MLS) took to social media Wednesday night to celebrate Bafana Bafana duo Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Olwethu Makhanya, after their inclusion in South Africa’s final Fifa World Cup 2026 squad.
The league’s official account praised the pair, who are based in the US with Chicago Fire and Philadelphia Union, respectively, as they prepare to represent the nation nexty month in the NOrth America showpiece.
“Things you love to see," the post read. "Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Olwethu Makhanya are ready to represent Bafana Bafana at the Fifa World Cup!”
The post quickly gained traction among supporters, highlighting the growing international footprint of South African players now competing in MSL.
Mbokazi, formerly of Orlando Pirates, who has been turning heads with Chicago, has impressed with his composure and defensive maturity, while Makhanya’s rise in Philadelphia has been marked by consistency and strong performances that earned him national team recognition.
A clip of Makhanya went viral last year as he tussled with Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi and he has since grown in leaps and bounds to become one of the toughest defenders in his league. The arrival of Mbokazi has only solidified the South African conversation as he’s immediately earned the respect of the entire division with chants ‘TLB’ now known in the US.
Their inclusion in the Bafana squad under coach Hugo Broos reflects the increasing value of South Africans gaining experience abroad, with MLS providing a competitive platform ahead of the global showpiece.
Bafana head into the World Cup with a blend of domestic-based talent and overseas experience, and the recognition from MLS adds further spotlight to a squad aiming to make an impact on the international stage.
With excitement building ahead of the tournament, both players will now look to translate their club form into national team success as South Africa prepare for their biggest football test in years.