WATCH: New 2026 World Cup format adds drama, diversity and tough tests for Bafana Bafana

FIFA has revealed the draw mechanics for the expanded 48-team 2026 World Cup, confirming a new format of 12 groups of four, significantly different from the traditional eight-group system. 

Football analyst Sizwe Mbebe says the seeding process, which uses factors beyond global rankings, will take some getting used to but reflects the 'new world' of a much larger tournament.

While Bafana Bafana may face formidable opponents, Mbebe believes they have a real chance, noting that 'form and hunger on the day' could shape surprising outcomes.

"I'm looking at it glass half full; in our group, we'll have a big name. We are guaranteed to have a big name. So, our team will have a taste of playing against at least a top-10-ranked team in the world. That's something we can mark down and say, whatever happens, the guys are going to have an experience of playing at the top tournament in the world against a top-ranked side at that level. They're going to take away that experience and say, Okay, I once faced a Brazil at a World Cup, and I note that down and tell my kids.

"I think that this is where the World Cup then becomes interesting. It's going to be about form, who wants it more on the day." 

Mbebe says the expanded format opens the door to new footballing stories, such as Haiti and Curaçao qualifying for the first time, adding richness and unpredictability to the competition. 

Although concerns remain about competitiveness, he argues that the broader global participation makes this World Cup 'feel truly global' and offers players invaluable experience.

"This really feels like a global World Cup because there are a lot more teams, a lot more stories, a lot more avenues to be disappointed, a lot more avenues to be excited. The level of unpredictability also rises higher, which is what we want every time that we watch a sports game. So, in this case, I think we're going to be fed on that on a regular basis. It's on us to maybe have the appetite to sit through that and enjoy, this once-off type of event that's going to be happening."

To listen to Mbebe in conversation with CapeTalk's John Maytham, click below: