Khune backs Bafana to progress past World Cup group stages

June 3, 2026 27

Former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper, Itumeleng Khune, believes the current national team has what it takes to achieve what his generation could not, and progress beyond the group stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The former Kaizer Chiefs shot-stopper was part of the 2010 Bafana squad that became the first host nation in FIFA World Cup history to fail to advance beyond the group stages.

This time around, Hugo Broos and his charges face another stern test after being drawn in Group A alongside co-hosts Mexico, the Czech Republic and South Korea.

“Bafana Bafana have the potential to beat Mexico, especially this current group, they deserve to be at the World Cup,” Khune said.

“They played the qualifiers and proudly finished top of their group. With us in 2010, it was different and I think maybe that’s why we couldn’t get out of the group stages.

“We were more relaxed as the hosts, and we didn’t have to travel a lot to play the qualifiers. I think this group will make us proud because they know what it took for them to qualify to represent Bafana in Mexico,” he added.

Bafana will kick off their campaign on 11 June against Mexico in Mexico City.

High altitude, higher ambitions. ⛰️⚽ Bafana Bafana’s training sessions in Pachuca have begun! We’re putting in the heavy work in Mexico. We are focussed and determined. Drop a 🇿🇦 in the comments if you’re behind the boys! 💚💛

#BafanaPride @adidasfootball @adidasza @rexona_sa… pic.twitter.com/yy6LiWDfFB

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) June 3, 2026