‘We can do it’ – Benni McCarthy bullish on South Africa’s 2026 World Cup chances

South Africa’s long-awaited return to the global stage has gained a strong vote of confidence from one of its most iconic figures, Benni McCarthy, who believes Bafana Bafana have the tools to compete credibly at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

For the first time since hosting the tournament in 2010 FIFA World Cup, South Africa are preparing to test themselves against the world’s elite, ending a qualification drought that stretches back to their appearance at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

The milestone marks a significant step in the national team’s rebuilding process under head coach Hugo Broos, whose influence has reshaped both results and belief within the squad.

McCarthy, South Africa’s all-time leading scorer, has pointed to Broos’ pedigree as a decisive factor behind the renewed optimism. The Belgian tactician arrived with a proven record, having previously guided Cameroon to continental glory, and has since translated that experience into tangible progress with Bafana.

Under his leadership, South Africa not only secured qualification for the World Cup but also made a deep run to the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations, signaling a team capable of competing under pressure.

“Listen, I think we can do it, man. We have a world-class coach, the first coach to help us qualify for the AFCON [in a long time] and took us to the semi-final [in 2023] and qualified for the World Cup,” McCarthy said.

Beyond the technical bench, McCarthy highlighted the domestic foundation underpinning the national side’s resurgence.

Powerhouses like Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns continue to set competitive standards in the Betway Premiership, producing players accustomed to high-stakes football. For McCarthy, this internal rivalry strengthens the national pool and sharpens the edge required for international competition.

“So, he came with a pedigree [having won AFCON with Cameroon], and he has proven it. So, we have a good team, a world-class coach, Orlando Pirates, and Mamelodi Sundowns as the winning teams fighting for the title [Betway Premiership]. Hopefully, this goes to the wire.

“With those two teams, how can we go wrong? I’m pure South African, and I’m optimistic. A lot of people think I’m sceptical because I’m not the coach of Bafana, but when we don’t have success, it hurts me as much as it hurts every single one of you. We were all born in this country, and we feel it more than anyone else.”