Bafana Bafana to host Panama in dual-city World Cup preparation series

Bafana Bafana will host two international friendly matches against Central American side Panama next month, as a pivotal phase of preparation for the upcoming 2026 Fifa World Cup.

The games against the world’s No 33-ranked side, Panama, will be played at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, March 27, followed by a clash at DHL Cape Town Stadium on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

This upcoming series promises to be a significant part of head coach Hugo Broos’ strategy as he fine-tunes his squad ahead of the global tournament, which will unfold across the USA, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

The fixtures not only serve as a testing ground for new tactics and player combinations but also aim to reinvigorate the team spirit and bolster support from the local fanbase.

Bafana Bafana’s return to Durban marks their first appearance since a gripping goalless draw against Zimbabwe in a 2026 World Cup qualifier held at the same venue in October 2025. During that match, the South African side fought valiantly, with numerous shots threatening to breach the opposing goal line, only to be thwarted by relentless defending and a stroke of bad luck.

However, the team rebounded in remarkable style, securing their place in the global tournament with a commanding 3-0 victory over Rwanda in Mbombela.

As the friendly matches draw closer, anticipation is building among supporters looking to see how Bafana Bafana will adapt to the challenges posed by Panama, a team known for its resilience and pace on the ball.

The fixtures promise to provide valuable insights into the team’s preparations while fostering unity among players and fans alike. Fans are encouraged to come out in numbers and show their support as the national team strives for excellence on the world stage.

* Herman Gibbs is a senior sports contributor for Independent Media and guest on our football podcast, the D-Line, on our YouTube channel The Clutch