Makhehleni Makhaula tips Orlando Pirates stars to dominate Bafana Bafana's 2026 World Cup squad

The 36-year-old midfield workhorse says senior players at the Buccaneers are working hard behind the scenes to ensure the club's younger talents are ready for the biggest stage in world football.

With Pirates currently boasting a strong blend of experienced campaigners and exciting youngsters, Makhaula feels several of his teammates have already shown they have what it takes to represent South Africa at the global showpiece.

"We want to see the youngsters go to the World Cup and represent us nicely," the former AmaZulu FC midfielder told Times Live.

Makhaula believes the performances of some Pirates players this season are already making a strong case for inclusion in Bafana coach Hugo Broos' plans.

"Probably there will be more players from us (Pirates) who will go to the World Cup," he said.

"You can see the likes of Lebone Seema raising their hands."

According to the veteran midfielder, the club's senior figures are determined to guide the next generation so they can fulfil their potential.

"Here we have younger players who are willing to learn. They also listen to the coach and to us as senior players," he explained.

"If we don't push the youngsters, they are not going to do well. They must know there's Nkosinathi Sibisi, Sipho Chaine and other senior players who will always be there for them."

Despite turning 36, the experienced midfielder has not completely ruled out the possibility of making the trip to the global tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19 in 2026.

"If it happens, it happens - but if it doesn't happen, I am not going to cry over it," he said.

"There are a lot of good youngsters in my position who can do the job. It's good for South African football to go for younger players."