The Philadelphia Union pipeline has another major moment to celebrate as centerback Olwethu Makhanya has been named to South Africa's 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.
Makhanya, 22, starred for Philadelphia Union II during their 2024 MLS NEXT Pro Cup run, helping them claim the Eastern Conference championship.
He represents the club's first-ever U-22 initiative signing, and he made his professional debut with Union II toward the end of 2023 and followed it up with a breakout in 2024 en route to becoming a full-time first-teamer. Last year, Makhanya put together an MLS Best XI bid in the Union's historic Supporters' Shield championship.
Looking for his first-ever senior cap with Bafana Bafana, Makhanya and Co. will compete in Group A with Mexico, Czechia, and South Korea.
South Africa 2026 FIFA World Cup roster by position
Goalkeepers (3)
- Ronwen Williams, Mamelodi Sundowns FC
- Ricardo Goss, Siwelele FC
- Sipho Chaine, Orlando Pirates FC
Defenders (11)
- Khuliso Mudau, Mamelodi Sundowns FC
- Olwethu Makhanya, Philadelphia Union
- Bradley Cross, Kaizer Chiefs FC
- Aubrey Modiba, Mamelodi Sundowns FC
- Thabang Matuludi, Polokwane City FC
- Nkosinathi Sibisi, Orlando Pirates FC
- Ime Okon, Hannover 96
- Samukele Kabini, Molde FK
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Chicago Fire
- Kamogelo Sebelebele, Orlando Pirates FC
- Khulumani Ndamane, Mamelodi Sundowns FC
Midfielders (4)
- Teboho Mokoena, Mamelodi Sundowns FC
- Thalente Mbatha, Orlando Pirates FC
- Jayden Adams, Mamelodi Sundowns FC
- Sphephelo Sithole, CD Tondela
Forwards (8)
- Oswin Appollis, Orlando Pirates FC
- Tshepang Moremi, Orlando Pirates FC
- Evidence Makgopa, Orlando Pirates FC
- Lyle Foster, Burnley
- Iqraam Rayners, Mamelodi Sundowns FC
- Relebohile Mofokeng, Orlando Pirates FC
- Themba Zwane, Mamelodi Sundowns FC
- Thapelo Maseko, AEL Limassol
