The road back to the FIFA World Cup is starting to feel real for Bafana Bafana.
The anticipation for the 2026 World Cup has turned into friendly fixtures as the South African Football Association (SAFA) confirms the first big test on the calendar.
As preparation, South Africa will host Panama in two international friendlies during the March international window, using home soil to prepare for life on football’s biggest stage in 2026.
SAFA STATEMENT OF PANAMA SHOWDOWNS
“Bafana Bafana will face Panama in two international friendly matches to be played in South Africa between 27-31 March 2026, as part of the South African national team’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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“The matches form a critical component of head coach Hugo Broos’s build-up programme ahead of the global tournament, which will be hosted by the United States of America, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July 2026.
“Panama, currently ranked 33rd in the world, were considered to provide high-quality opposition. The Central American side offers a competitive, physical and tactically disciplined test that aligns closely with the level South Africa will face at the FIFA World Cup.”
WHY BAFANA BAFANA HAVE CHOSEN PANAMA
The friendlies also come with the group picture already clear. South Africa were drawn into Group A at the World Cup draw in Washington DC in December 2025.
Waiting for South Africa are hosts Mexico, South Korea, and the winner of UEFA Playoff D, which will be one of Czech Republic, Republic of Ireland, Denmark or North Macedonia.
The country’s last appearance at the FIFA World Cup came on home soil in 2010. South Africa opened with a 1–1 draw against Mexico, highlighted by Siphiwe Tshabalala’s well-taken opening goal of the tournament. Despite leading for much of the match, Bafana Bafana conceded late and struck the post in the closing minutes.
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The second fixture proved decisive. A 3–0 loss to Uruguay left South Africa under pressure, with the dismissal of goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune playing a major role. Diego Forlán scored twice as qualification became unlikely.
Mzansi responded in their final group match with a 2–1 win over 2006 finalists France, thanks to goals from Bongani Khumalo and Katlego Mphela. However, the result was not enough to advance.
South Africa were eliminated on goal difference, becoming the first host nation to exit a World Cup at the group stage.
WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FROM BAFANA BAFANA AT THE WORLD CUP IN JUNE?
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