Hugo Broos outlines importance South Africa’s back-to-back friendlies against Panama

As questions mounted over South Africa’s choice of Panama for a pre-World Cup friendly, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has explained the strategy behind the pairing.

The national team convened at the Tuks High Performance Centre in Pretoria on Monday, ahead of a two-match series against the Central American side.

The first encounter will be held in Durban on March 27, followed by the second leg at Cape Town Stadium on March 31.

Broos says the fixtures serve a dual purpose: to finalise his squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, and to give players the chance to fulfil their lifelong dream of representing South Africa on football’s biggest stage.

Several established names have been left out, including Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine and midfielder Sipho Mbule, who now face competition to reclaim their spots.

Others sidelined due to form, injury, or tactical reasons include Mohau Nkota, Siyabonga Ngezana, Bathusi Aubaas, and Elias Mokwana.

At the same time, Broos has welcomed back key figures. Jayden Adams returns to the squad, while MLS attacker Bongokuhle Hlongwane, absent from Bafana duty since 2023, is also included.

Thapelo Maseko, Mamelodi Sundowns veteran Themba “Mshishi” Zwane, Ime Okon, and Renaldo Leaner have another opportunity to impress and stake their claim ahead of the World Cup.

Broos believes Panama provide the perfect challenge as South Africa ramps up preparations.

“It was the right decision to choose Panama to play two international games here in South Africa,” he said.

“We will learn a lot about the Central American style.

Results are secondary, but I want to avoid heavy defeats. These games will test us, and we must also restore the spirit we showed over the past three years, which dipped during the recent Africa Cup of Nations.”

Early arrivals in the Pretoria camp on Monday included Okon and Leaner. US-based Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Hlongwane, Maseko, and Samukele Kabini were expected to join on Tuesday morning.