Samukelo Kabini aiming for more after Bafana Bafana success

Samukelo Kabini is on cloud nine, realising his dreams earlier than expected. But despite the euphoria, he knows he can’t afford to rest on his laurels.

Kabini was part of the squad that secured Bafana Bafana’s automatic qualification for the 2026 Fifa World Cup in North America, after finishing top of Group C in the qualifiers.

His contribution in terms of game time was minimal — making only one appearance, against Nigeria — but his impact has been significant as part of a united squad determined to restore national pride.

His professional career only took off two years ago, after moving from Orlando Pirates’ reserve team to TS Galaxy’s senior side. TS Galaxy later sold him to his current club, Norway-based Molde FK. Kabini never imagined he’d already be playing for Bafana.

“No, not at all,” Kabini said. “I thought I would play for Bafana in the next six or seven years. But God’s timing is always perfect. Today, I’m here and have qualified for the World Cup with Bafana Bafana.

“I just have to keep pushing to find myself in the World Cup-bound squad.”

With the coming months not guaranteeing whether Kabini will be part of the squad representing South Africa at AFCON in December — or at the global showpiece co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico — he knows he can’t ease up.

“I’m really excited about the next few months of my life,” Kabini said. “But I can’t stop here — I need to keep pushing until the World Cup in 2026 so that I can make the final squad. I’m thankful to God and everyone.”

Bafana’s qualification at Mbombela Stadium was especially meaningful for Kabini — it was his former home ground during his time at Galaxy.

“I’m really happy and feel great,” Kabini said. “You can see the crowd is happy. It’s not just the players, but the people of South Africa as well.

“We’re looking forward to going to the World Cup. I’d like to thank the team and the supporters for their effort. They came out to support us, and we’re really grateful.”

Kabini admitted he was nervous heading into that final clash against Rwanda, given the dropped points and Fifa sanction.

Bafana’s qualification campaign wasn’t without its hurdles. They were docked three points by Fifa and drew with Zimbabwe in the penultimate qualifier. But thanks to an unexpected favour from Nigeria, they still got the job done — beating Rwanda 3-0 in the final match to book their ticket to North America.

“I was really nervous after the game against Zimbabwe because we dropped points,” Kabini conceded. “But then I told myself there’s still hope and belief. And today, all the results went our way.”

Bafana will now begin preparations for the continental showpiece later this year. And if Kabini continues to shine at Molde, coach Hugo Broos may find it hard to leave him out — for both AFCON and the World Cup next year.