Bafana Bafana’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup appear to be losing momentum following a string of unconvincing performances.
After qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in emphatic fashion, expectations were high that the team would carry that form into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
However, those hopes were short-lived as they exited the tournament in the round of 16, managing just two wins against lower-ranked opposition.
Narrow and unconvincing victories over Angola and Zimbabwe in the group stages did little to inspire confidence.
Their 1-0 defeat to a 10-man Egypt side ultimately exposed one of the team’s biggest weaknesses, a lack of creativity and cutting edge in attack.
It has become increasingly clear that Bafana Bafana struggle against well-organised teams with disciplined defensive structures.
Fast forward to March 2026, and the same issues from AFCON remain unresolved, raising serious questions about the team’s readiness for the global showpiece.
Should Bafana fans be worried?
The simple answer is yes. Bafana’s recent form paints a worrying picture. In their last five matches, they have lost three, won one and drawn one.
Their AFCON campaign ended with a 1-0 loss to Egypt, before a narrow 3-2 win over Zimbabwe secured passage to the knockout stage. Despite a promising first-half display, they were eliminated after a 2-1 defeat to Cameroon.
Their most recent friendlies against Panama have done little to ease concerns, ending in a 1-1 draw and a 2-1 loss.
Another major issue is the team’s defensive fragility. Bafana Bafana have now conceded in their last seven official matches, a stark contrast to the side that once went 27 games unbeaten while boasting a solid defence.
A key factor behind this decline has been the constant chopping and changing in central defence over the past two years.
While coach Hugo Broos previously got away with it against weaker opposition, stronger teams have exposed the lack of consistency and cohesion at the back.
During AFCON, Mbekezeli Mbokazi was paired with Nkosinathi Sibisi and Siyabonga Ngezana at different stages, but none of those combinations proved effective.
In the recent clash against Panama, he partnered with Ime Okon, yet the defensive struggles persisted.
Although Mbokazi has shown promise, he is yet to establish a reliable partnership in the heart of defence.
Concerns also extend to midfield, where Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole has struggled to replicate his impressive AFCON 2023 form. If this dip continues, it could become a liability for the team going forward.
Ultimately, while defensive issues remain a concern, Bafana Bafana’s biggest problem lies in their inability to consistently create and convert scoring opportunities,an issue that must be urgently addressed ahead of the World Cup.