Poggenpoel earns Bafana Bafana recall after World Cup disappointment

Durban City head coach Khalil Ben Youssef has praised Brooklyn Poggenpoel for turning the disappointment of missing out on South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad into motivation to revive his international ambitions.

The midfielder was named in the preliminary group of players alongside goalkeeper Brandon Petersen and midfielder Lebogang Maboe, but all three were left out of the final squad that travelled to the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Poggenpoel has since continued to perform strongly for Durban City, earning selection in Pitso Mosimane’s 30-man Bafana Bafana squad last week.

Ben Youssef said he had discussed the midfielder’s objectives with him after the World Cup setback and was struck by the 26-year-old’s determination to respond positively.

“We spoke with the player about the mindset that he has, Poggenpoel. Remember, before the World Cup, what they did to some players, asking them to come and be ready to fly,” Ben Youssef said.

“In the preliminary list, Petersen, Maboe and Poggenpoel were included. It was something so tough for them.

“Up until now, I don’t have an explanation about what they did. Another player could lose confidence, lose the desire to play football. You come with your luggage, ready to fly to America to play in the World Cup, and then they say, ‘Sorry, you don’t have a place. You have to go back home.’

“Fortunately for us, Poggenpoel has the mindset to continue working. From the first day I had a meeting with him, we discussed his objectives. It was clear: ‘I have to be part of the next Bafana Bafana squad.’”

Poggenpoel’s progress has come despite a challenging beginning to the domestic campaign. He missed two MTN8 matches after being sent off, but Ben Youssef believes the suspension did not derail his focus.

“He continued to work despite missing two games in the MTN8 because of a red card,” the Durban City manager said. “He continued with a good mindset. He is such a professional player.

“And I don’t need to only discuss Poggenpoel. I think there will be one or two more players from Durban City in the next list.”

The manager’s comments underline Poggenpoel’s recovery from the World Cup disappointment and his return to contention for Bafana Bafana, after the midfielder maintained his club form and remained focused on his stated international target.