Troost-Ekong Names Mbokazi Best Player in SA's Loss

In the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, South Africa's national team, Bafana Bafana, faced a 1-0 defeat against Canada. William Troost-Ekong, the former captain of Nigeria's Super Eagles, identified Mbekezil Mbokazi as the best player for South Africa during the match.

The game, held in Canada, saw South Africa's defense perform notably well, effectively thwarting Canadian attacks until a late goal by Stephen Eustáquio secured Canada's advancement to the Round of 16. Troost-Ekong remarked on the young defender Mbokazi's impressive performance, indicating that he possessed the ball well.

He also noted that South Africa had opportunities in the final 30 minutes of the second half when they adopted a more offensive approach, but their decision to wait for extra time ultimately led to their defeat.