Ex-Kaizer Chiefs star Siyabonga Ngezana gutted after missing out on South Africa’s World Cup squad

Former Kaizer Chiefs defender has reportedly been left heartbroken after missing out on a place in the South Africa squad for next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is set to feature the world’s best players, but Ngezana will not be among those representing Bafana Bafana on football’s biggest stage.

Although South Africa head coach Hugo Broos is only expected to officially announce his final squad next week, clubs are usually informed in advance when their players are selected for international duty.

Over the weekend, Ngezana’s coach at Romanian champions FCSB, Lucian Filip, confirmed that the defender had not received a call-up and admitted the player was deeply disappointed by the news.

Speaking to Antena Sport, Filip revealed that the South African defender was struggling to come to terms with the setback.

“No, Siyabonga Ngezana was not called up to the World Cup. He is disappointed, but that’s life, football doesn’t end here,” Filip said.

“He has to respect his club, because of the club he was in the national team’s attention. I hope he will be present at the next Championship.”

The omission will come as a major blow for Ngezana, who has enjoyed an impressive rise since leaving Kaizer Chiefs to join FCSB in Europe.

The centre-back has developed into one of the key figures for the Romanian giants and has earned praise for his consistent performances, composure in defence, and physical presence at the back. His displays in European football had raised hopes that he would secure a regular place in Hugo Broos’ plans ahead of the global tournament.

Many South African football supporters believed the 27-year-old had done enough to earn a ticket to the World Cup, particularly given his growth and maturity since moving abroad. However, Broos appears to have opted for other defensive options as he finalises his squad for the prestigious competition.

Ngezana’s absence is likely to spark debate among Bafana Bafana fans, especially considering his experience at club level and his recent form in Romania.

Despite the disappointment, Filip insisted that the defender must remain focused and continue working hard, suggesting that this setback should not define his international future.

For Ngezana, the challenge now will be to channel his frustration positively and continue delivering strong performances for FCSB. With age still on his side and his reputation continuing to grow in Europe, the defender could yet have more opportunities to represent South Africa at major tournaments in the years ahead.