Kaizer Chiefs trio head to FIFA World Cup 2026 – as fans
· The South African
Kaizer Chiefs continue to dominate headlines in the lead-up to FIFA World Cup 2026 despite having minimal representation in the Bafana Bafana squad.
Only one Kaizer Chiefs player earned a place in Hugo Broos’ final 26-man squad – Bradley Cross.
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However, a trio of Amakhosi stars will at least get a taste of the experience at football’s biggest spectacle.
Meanwhile, rising defender Aden McCarthy stands on the verge of a UEFA Champions League adventure.
MCKENZIE SENDS KAIZER CHIEFS TRIO TO THE FIFA WORLD CUP
Amakhosi trio Brandon Petersen, Thabiso Monyane and Lebohang Maboe all missed out on Broos’ final selection.
Similiarly, Patrick Maswanganyi, Thapelo Morena and Brooklyn Poggenpoel were also overlooked after the sextet were omitted from the final squad having been named in Broos’ 32-man preliminary squad.
However, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has handed them a unique opportunity.
McKenzie has sent all six aforementioned players to the FIFA World Cup in Mexico, not from a playing capacity, but as spectators.
As a result, the players will experience the tournament first-hand and support Bafana Bafana from the stands.
They will get to watch South Africa’s opening match at the iconic Estadio Azteca on Thursday, 11 June against co-hosts Mexico.
MCCARTHY CLOSES IN ON A EUROPEAN DREAM
Meanwhile, Aden McCarthy has wasted little time making an impression at senior level.
After graduating from Kaizer Chiefs’ DStv Diski Challenge side, he quickly made a name for himself in the first team.
Throughout the season, he showcased maturity, composure and consistency beyond his years.
Now, the talented 22-year-old defender appears ready for the next chapter in his career.
As reported by The South African, McCarthy is set to join Azerbaijani champions Sabah FK on a three-year deal.
He reportedly left South Africa on Monday to finalise the move.
Should the transfer go through, he will have the opportunity of competing in UEFA Champions League qualifying next season.
That would mark another major step in one of South African football’s most promising young careers.