Hugo Broos happy to test Bafana Bafana against Panama

Head coach Hugo Broos has underlined the importance of adaptability and growth as Bafana Bafana prepare to host Panama in two international friendlies later this week.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, Broos believes the Central American side offers the perfect test for his squad as they continue to refine their approach against varied opposition.

‘Will learn a lot’

“It was the right decision to choose Panama,” Hugo Broos said.

“We will learn a lot about the Central American style of playing football. The result is not the most important thing, but we also don’t want heavy defeats.”

South Africa will first face Panama at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, 27 March, before the teams meet again at Cape Town Stadium on Tuesday, 31 March.

Rebuilding Identity

While results may not be the primary focus, Broos made it clear he expects a strong response from his players following a dip in form at the recent Africa Cup of Nations.

The Belgian tactician is particularly keen to see a return to the cohesive, disciplined performances that defined Bafana Bafana’s progress over the past three years.

“I want to see the Bafana Bafana of the last few years again,” he said.

“We lost that during AFCON, and we need to restore it.”

Squad Assembly Underway

The national team has begun assembling in Pretoria, although the full squad is yet to report.

Defender Ime Okon and goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner were among the early arrivals, while several key players are expected to join later due to club commitments.

A group of players from Mamelodi Sundowns were in action over the weekend in a CAF Champions League quarterfinal clash against Stade Malien at Stade du 26 Mars, delaying their arrival in camp.

Meanwhile, overseas-based players including Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Thapelo Maseko and Samukele Kabini are expected to link up with the squad shortly.

Final Preparations

Bafana Bafana will remain in Pretoria for the bulk of their preparations before travelling to Durban ahead of the first encounter.

For Hugo Broos and his team, the upcoming fixtures represent more than just friendly matches – they are a vital opportunity to test combinations, rebuild confidence, and sharpen their competitive edge as the road to 2026 continues.

Rankings

According to the latest FIFA rankings, Panama are ranked 33rd in the world, while South Africa are in 60th spot.

Panama have been drawn in Group L at this year’s FIFA World Cup alongside England, Croatia and Ghana.

Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana have been drawn alongside co-hosts Mexico and South Korea in Group A at FIFA World Cup 2026.

The identity of their third and final group stage opponents has yet to be determined, but will be one of Ireland, Czech Republic, Denmark or North Macedonia.

South Africa will take on Mexico in the opening match of the tournament on 11 June.

Bafana Bafana’s second Group A match will be against the yet-to-be-determined fourth side in the group on 18 June, while their clash against South Korea is scheduled for 24 June.

As a reminder, the top two sides in each of the 12 groups plus the eight best third-ranked sides will progress to the Round of 32 at a World Cup which will feature 48 teams for the first time ever.