South Africa national football team head coach Hugo Broos has indicated that Thembinkosi Lorch is unlikely to be included in the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With selection decisions approaching ahead of the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada, Broos has emphasised the importance of continuity within his squad over recent individual form.
Lorch’s performances have attracted renewed attention following a resurgence in North Africa after previous spells with Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns. His improved form has led to calls from supporters for his return to the national setup.
However, Broos has questioned whether the timing of that resurgence fits into the structure he has built within the team over recent years.
Speaking on 947 with Robert Marawa, the coach acknowledged the growing debate but suggested that past performances and squad cohesion remain key considerations.
“Firstly, I think he [Lorch] has many supporters because it’s already been four months that people have been talking about him, but people forget what Lorch did in the last two years,” Broos said.
“He was leaving Pirates, not because you are a star; he went to Sundowns, and then he left Sundowns. I think he was happy when he was with Rhulani [Mokwena] in Morocco, where he could score.
“And now I’m honest; he’s playing well, but if you take Lorch, tell me who doesn’t go to the World Cup. Knowing that he’s a player who plays behind the striker, tell me [who must remain behind?],” he asked.
Broos further explained that selecting a World Cup squad involves more than simply rewarding current form, highlighting the importance of maintaining a consistent group.
“I can’t go with 26 players; tell me [who has to go out]. It’s very difficult to take a player who was never with us and drop a player who was always with us. Therefore, the choice we make is not always a sporting choice; it can be that the guys who have always been with us didn’t disappoint, so why should we change that?” he added.
The coach’s comments underline his commitment to the core group that guided South Africa through qualification and recent competitive fixtures.
While Lorch’s return to form has generated discussion, Broos’ stance suggests that familiarity, trust and cohesion within the squad will be decisive factors when final selections are made.
As the countdown to the World Cup continues, South Africa appear set to rely on continuity as they prepare for the challenges of the global tournament.
