Aubrey Modiba is confident South Africa can win the Africa Cup of Nations again. The Mamelodi Sundowns defender shared his belief in the team's potential in an interview with The Citizen this week.
Modiba pointed to the squad's recent performances as a foundation for success. He highlighted the team's run to the semi-finals of the last AFCON tournament as proof they can compete with the continent's best. The 30-year-old argued that the current group has the talent and mentality needed to lift the trophy, just as the iconic 1996 side did.
What gives Modiba this confidence?
The player's optimism stems from the team's collective strength. He noted that the squad is no longer reliant on one or two star individuals. Instead, a deep pool of players across various positions provides the coach with multiple options. This depth was evident during their recent World Cup qualifying campaign, where different players stepped up in key moments. You can see the full roster on our squad page.
Modiba also stressed the importance of self-belief. "We have shown we can beat any team in Africa on our day," he told the outlet. The defender believes that replicating the historic 1996 victory is a realistic target for this generation. Their current FIFA ranking and consistent results against top African nations support this view.
How is the team preparing for 2026?
South Africa's focus is firmly on the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team is building towards the tournament through a structured schedule of international matches and rigorous training camps. Their qualification group presents a significant challenge, but it's one the team is approaching with clear plans. The upcoming fixtures are crucial for building momentum and testing tactical setups. Fans can track the road to 2026 on our fixtures list.
| Opponent | Competition | Venue | Result/Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nigeria | World Cup Qualifier | Away | 5 Oct 2026 |
| Zimbabwe | World Cup Qualifier | Home | 12 Oct 2026 |
| Benin | World Cup Qualifier | Away | 15 Nov 2026 |
The table above outlines key upcoming matches in the World Cup qualifying campaign. Securing positive results in these games is the immediate priority for head coach Hugo Broos and his staff.
What does the historical context add?
The shadow of 1996 looms large but serves as inspiration, not a burden. South Africa's triumph on home soil 30 years ago remains the benchmark for the national team. Modiba and his teammates are aware of that legacy and are motivated to create their own. The current squad has already demonstrated it can handle pressure in major tournaments, which is essential for any championship run.
Broos has been instrumental in fostering a resilient team spirit. His experience in winning the AFCON with Cameroon in 2017 provides a valuable blueprint. The blend of experienced campaigners and exciting young talent creates a dynamic group. Their defensive solidity, in particular, has become a trademark, making them a difficult opponent for anyone.
The team's next steps involve continuing their solid form in World Cup qualification. Every match is an opportunity to refine their approach and strengthen the collective understanding. The ultimate goal is clear: to return South African football to the pinnacle of the continent. Progress can be measured through our standings page as the qualifiers unfold.
