World Cup 2026: Bongani Khumalo warns Mbekezeli Mbokazi of high-stakes tournament

Former Bafana Bafana captain Bongani Khumalo believes the 2026 FIFA World Cup could prove to be a defining moment in the career of young South African defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

With South Africa preparing for its opening Group A clash against Mexico on Thursday, expectations are growing around Mbokazi, who has quickly emerged as one of the country’s most promising talents following his move from Orlando Pirates to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Khumalo admitted he is both excited and concerned for the young defender as he prepares to perform on football’s biggest stage.

The former Tottenham Hotspur defender explained that the World Cup presents a unique opportunity for players to elevate their careers, but it can also expose them to immense pressure and scrutiny.

“As a former pro, I would say, stay away from the noise. I think the World Cup is such a stage where things can either go really right for you or really wrong because of the expectations and the eyes.”

Khumalo noted that the global attention surrounding the tournament can be overwhelming, particularly for younger players who are still establishing themselves at the highest level.

“For a young footballer, that can either make or break you,” he continued.

Despite his concerns, Khumalo expressed confidence in Mbokazi’s mentality and character, qualities he believes have played a major role in the defender’s rapid rise through the ranks.

“I’d like to believe – I don’t know him personally – with what he’s achieved so far, there’s a certain character that he has.”

The former national team skipper stressed that football inevitably tests a player’s resilience, especially during major tournaments where pressure reaches its peak.

“One thing about football is that it will test that character, 100 percent,” Khumalo said.

“Whether it’s this tournament or whatever tournament in the future, that will happen, and I would like to believe that he has the personality and character to drag himself out of any situation as a leader and figure it out.”

Mbokazi is expected to play a crucial role for Bafana Bafana as they attempt to navigate a challenging Group A campaign.

South Africa begin their World Cup journey against hosts Mexico in the tournament’s opening match before taking on South Korea and Czechia in their remaining group-stage fixtures.

While much attention will be focused on Mbokazi, Khumalo emphasized that the responsibility for South Africa’s success does not rest solely on the shoulders of one player.

Instead, the entire squad will be expected to rise to the occasion as Bafana Bafana seek to make a lasting impression on the global stage and advance beyond the group phase.

For Mbokazi, however, the tournament represents a golden opportunity to showcase his abilities before a worldwide audience and further establish himself as one of South Africa’s brightest football prospects. A strong World Cup campaign could significantly enhance his reputation, while also helping Bafana Bafana achieve their ambitions in North America.