South Africa’s national football team, Bafana Bafana, has climbed to 54 in the latest FIFA world rankings, marking another significant milestone in the team’s resurgence under head coach Hugo Broos.
The six-place jump follows the team’s impressive performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they reached the knockout stages for the first time in the country’s history.
Also see: How Pitso Mosimane transformed since his last Bafana Bafana job
Historic run at the 2026 World Cup
Our boys, Bafana Bafana, were drawn in a tough group alongside co-hosts Mexico, Czechia and the Republic of Korea. In the opening match, they lost to the co-hosts, Mexico. But the boys responded with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Czechia, equalising late in the match.
A crucial 1-0 victory over South Korea, courtesy of a Thapelo Maseko strike, secured second place in the group and a place for Bafana in the knockout rounds.
In the Round of 32, they faced co-hosts Canada and were edged out 0-1 by a late goal. Despite the narrow exit, reaching the knockout phase marked a significant milestone and generated widespread pride across the country.
Bafana’s World Cup campaign captured the imagination of football fans in the country when they secured a historic place. Their disciplined displays, defensive resilience and growing confidence against some of the world’s best teams earned widespread praise and valuable FIFA ranking points.
Also see: Hugo Broos nearing Bafana Bafana contract extension
Climbing the global ladder
The move to 54th represents South Africa’s highest FIFA ranking in more than a decade and serves as recognition of the work done by Broos and his squad since taking charge.
The Belgian coach built a competitive team by blending experienced players with emerging talent, creating a group capable of competing at the highest level.
The improved ranking is expected to boost South Africa’s standing in future international draws and further strengthen the team’s confidence as they prepare for upcoming continental and international competitions.
On the African continent, the team now sits inside the top 10. Morocco continues to lead the continental rankings with a strong global position, followed by other established sides such as Senegal, Egypt, Nigeria and Algeria. South Africa’s improved ranking places it firmly among the leading African nations once again.
With momentum on their side, Bafana Bafana will now aim to continue their upward trajectory and establish themselves among Africa’s leading football nations while pushing closer to the world’s top 50.
Also see: Hugo Broos set to step down as Bafana Bafana head coach
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