Bafana Bafana scripted history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reaching the knockout stages to secure their highest-ever finish on football’s biggest stage.
Also see: Bafana Bafana’s Top 5 2026 FIFA World Cup performers
Bafana Bafana at the FIFA World Cup
After a demoralising opening-day loss at the hands of co-hosts Mexico, South Africa managed to turn the tide and reach the Round of 32 by drawing against Czechia and picking up an incredible win over South Korea.
Although co-hosts Canada ended their journey by narrowly defeating Bafana Bafana in the Round of 32, their campaign was nevertheless a massive success.
Heading into the World Cup, South Africa was ranked 60th in the world and 12th in Africa. Now, in the latest rankings following the tournament, Bafana have climbed up six places to 54th in the world. They’re also up to 10th on the continent, their highest ranking since 2015.
Newly crowned champions Spain have leapfrogged runners-up Argentina to take top spot in the overall rankings while Morocco climbed up to sixth place.
Top 10 FIFA rankings
- Spain
- Argentina
- France
- England
- Brazil
- Morocco
- Portugal
- Belgium
- Netherlands
- Mexico
Also see: Watch: Bafana Bafana receives warm welcome at OR Tambo International Airport
Top 10 African sides on latest FIFA rankings
- Morocco (6th in the world)
- Senegal (18th in the world)
- Egypt (24th in the world)
- Nigeria (26th in the world)
- Algeria (29th in the world)
- Ivory Coast (31st in the world)
- DR Congo (41st in the world)
- Cameroon (43rd in the world)
- Mali (53rd in the world)
- South Africa (54th in the world)
Bafana Bafana will next be in action in September when they face Guinea and Eritrea in AFCON Qualifiers. It remains to be seen who will be in charge of the team by then, with Hugo Broos likely to step down as head coach.
Originally published by Soccermag.
Also see: Fans reject Pitso Mosimane as Hugo Broos’ potential Bafana Bafana successor
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