South Africa to face Panama in World Cup warm-up friendlies

South Africa coach Hugo Broos has confirmed that Bafana Bafana will face Panama in two friendly matches as part of their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The matches are scheduled at two South African venues: the first at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Friday, 27 March, followed by a second fixture at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Tuesday, 31 March.

Broos emphasized the importance of these games in readying his squad for the global tournament.

“It was the right choice to opt for Panama for our two international matches here in South Africa.

We will learn a lot from the Central American style of play. The result isn’t the most important thing, but I don’t want to suffer two defeats, or heavy defeats. We need to learn from these kinds of teams.

But at the same time, I want to see the Bafana Bafana look back to the way I’ve seen them these past three years. That’s something we lost at the recent Africa Cup of Nations and we need to restore it. That’s why there are some changes in our squad selection,” Broos said.

The South African coach believes that the Panamanian side will provide a stern test for his team, giving players an opportunity to adapt to different styles ahead of the World Cup.

Broos also stressed that while results matter, his primary goal is to restore the tactical discipline and performance standards that he has been building over the past three years.

Bafana Bafana are set to remain in Pretoria until Thursday before travelling to Durban for their first match. The fixtures offer Broos the chance to evaluate his squad’s form and test new tactical approaches in a competitive but controlled environment.

These friendlies are part of South Africa’s broader strategy to prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Broos aiming to ensure the team is fully ready both physically and tactically for the tournament.