Keanu Cupido of Mamelodi Sundowns challenges Thulani Gumdede of Richards Bay FC during the Betway Premiership. Cupido is a Bafana Bafana World Cup prospect.
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Mamelodi Sundowns defender Keanu Cupido says he would be honoured to earn a place in Bafana Bafana’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following an impressive breakthrough season at Chloorkop.
The centre-back has emerged as one of Sundowns’ most reliable performers under coach Miguel Cardoso during the 2025/26 campaign.
Since arriving from Cape Town City FC in January 2025, Cupido has quickly established himself as a key figure in Sundowns’ defensive structure through a combination of composure, physicality and leadership.
The 28-year-old has played a major role in helping the Brazilians challenge strongly on both domestic and continental fronts this season.
Sundowns remain on course to retain the Betway Premiership title while also edging closer toward CAF Champions League glory after securing a narrow 1-0 victory over AS FAR Rabat in the first leg of the final at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Cupido once again delivered an assured defensive display in that encounter despite continuing to manage a painful shoulder injury sustained during a heated league clash against Kaizer Chiefs several weeks ago.
The defender revealed he has even required injections simply to remain available for selection during the crucial closing stretch of the season.
He is expected to take the field alongside fellow Bafana considerations Grant Kekana or Khulumane Ndamane this weekend as the Brazilians look to claim continental glory in Morocco.
With his performances continuing to impress, calls have intensified from supporters and pundits for Hugo Broos to include Cupido in South Africa’s final squad for next month’s FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
However, the defender himself has remained measured regarding the growing speculation surrounding a possible call-up.
“It’s up to the coach (Hugo Broos) to choose the team,” said Cupido.
“If I do get chosen, I’ll be honoured, and if I don’t, I’ll be happy for the other guys that are going to the World Cup.”
Cupido also acknowledged the growing depth currently available within South African football, insisting national selection should never be taken for granted.
“You know, as a country, there is a lot of talent as well,” he continued.
“If I do get an opportunity, I’ll really be honoured to represent the national team.”
Broos is expected to officially announce his Bafana Bafana squad on May 27 at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
For now though, Cupido’s immediate focus remains on helping Sundowns finish the season strongly as they continue balancing the pressure of both the Betway Premiership title race and the CAF Champions League final.