Hugo Broos' five key Bafana Bafana objectives for Panama double-header

Bafana Bafana are edging closer to their 2026 Fifa World Cup opener against Mexico on June 11, with their back-to-back preparation matches against Panama set for Moses Mabhida Stadium and DHL Stadium on Friday night (7pm kick-off) and next Tuesday.

Although Bafana are the hosts, Panama are favourites for the clashes as they are ranked 33rd in the world — 27 spots ahead of the South Africans. Coach Hugo Broos, however, will be more concerned about the team’s performances rather than the result.

For that reason, we look at five things he will want to see from both matches.

The Return of Themba Zwane

Zwane is a fan favourite in local football, not only due to his talent but also for his impeccable human qualities, which are seen through his humility. As such, his return to the national team has been warmly welcomed, especially by Broos. The Belgian, though, needs to carefully assess Zwane’s readiness to be a regular starter, given that he has been managed at Mamelodi Sundowns due to age and injuries.

Relebohile Mofokeng’s New Role

Dubbed the "prince of South African football", an in-form Mofokeng is a source of pride for the football fraternity. Given that he has been thriving in the number 10 role at Orlando Pirates, Broos has confirmed that this will be his new position in the national team as well. The two matches against Panama will put his skill set and combination with the rest of his teammates to the test.

Adaptation of Returnees

Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Renaldo Leaner and Thapelo Maseko are returning to the national team set-up for the first time this month after some time in the wilderness. They return at a challenging time, as they need to adapt seamlessly and forge a brotherhood with the rest of the players while still impressing Broos on the pitch to aid their chances of securing a ticket to the global showpiece.

Support Behind Bafana

Bafana had a below-par campaign at the recent AFCON, resulting in some supporters scrutinising the players and Broos, insisting that their support hasn’t been fully repaid. Broos and his charges will have to display an impressive outing against the Central Americans, which will enable the fans to rally behind the team in the friendlies and, most importantly, for the World Cup.

Team Readiness

Panama might not have been the primary opponents that Bafana wanted to prepare against for the World Cup, but they can’t dwell on that now. They need to go out there and outplay them. The Central American team will be key in Bafana’s preparation and will provide a taste of readiness for the global showpiece, as they also boast a similar style of play to Mexico.