McKenzie's World Cup Gift Politely Refused by All Six Standby Players

All six players who narrowly missed selection for the South African national team's final 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have declined an offer to watch Bafana Bafana's opening match in Mexico, choosing instead to support the team from home, the Siya crew has learnt.

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Brandon Petersen, Patrick Maswanganyi, Thabiso Monyane, Thapelo Morena, Lebohang Maboe, and Brooklyn Poggenpoel were each offered fully-funded trips to witness Bafana Bafana take on co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on 11 June.

The generous package, covering travel and accommodation, came through a partnership secured by Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie with proudly South African brand Old School.

Initial reports suggested that Lebohang Maboe had opted against taking up the offer, preferring to focus on pre-season training with Kaizer Chiefs ahead of the new campaign. The latest developments confirm that the five other players have followed suit.

The decision means all six missed witnessing Bafana Bafana's challenging start to the tournament in person, as Hugo Broos' side went down 2-0 to Mexico in Thursday's opening Group A encounter.