World Cup 2026: Teboho Mokoena returns for Canada clash as FIFA upholds Themba Zwane’s suspension

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has confirmed that midfielder Teboho Mokoena will be available for selection for the round of 32 World Cup clash against Canada national football team, while veteran playmaker Themba Zwane remains suspended after FIFA rejected South Africa’s appeal.

Broos revealed that the governing body upheld Zwane’s three-match suspension following his red card against Mexico, ending hopes of an early return for the influential attacker at a crucial stage of the tournament.

“Teboho is surely there against Canada, but Themba no — they didn’t accept our appeal, which is strange,” Broos said.

“What he did was certainly not deserving of a three-game sanction. Certainly not.”

The confirmation comes as a mixed boost for Bafana Bafana, who continue preparations for their last-32 encounter on Sunday evening, with squad adjustments now required ahead of one of their biggest matches in recent years.

Mokoena’s return is a significant lift for the team, having missed South Africa’s final group-stage match against South Korea due to accumulated yellow cards picked up in earlier matches against Mexico and Czech.

His presence is expected to strengthen the midfield structure, with Broos likely to reinstate him into the starting lineup for the knockout clash.

However, Zwane’s absence remains a major setback for the squad. The experienced midfielder was handed a three-match ban following his dismissal, and despite SAFA’s formal appeal, FIFA stood firm on the ruling, leaving the coaching staff frustrated with the decision.

The suspension forces Broos to rethink his attacking midfield options, with either Thalente Mbatha or Sphephelo Sithole expected to miss out if Mokoena returns to the starting XI.

The tactical reshuffle comes at a delicate moment for South Africa, who are preparing to face a strong Canadian side in a winner-takes-all knockout fixture.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 9pm South African time, with Bafana Bafana aiming to continue their impressive World Cup run despite key personnel challenges.

Broos and his technical team are now expected to finalise their lineup in the final training session, balancing the return of Mokoena with the absence of Zwane as they look to secure a place in the next round of the tournament.