Broos names Bafana preliminary squad for Panama friendlies

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has announced his preliminary squad for the upcoming international double-header against Panama later this month.

The South African senior men’s national team will face the Central American side in two high-profile friendlies as they ramp up preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The first encounter is scheduled for Friday, 27 March at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, followed by a second clash at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town on 31 March.

Broos and Bafana: Preparation for the Big Stage

These matches serve as a vital dress rehearsal for the global showpiece in June, where Bafana Bafana have been drawn in a challenging Group A. South Africa is set to feature in the tournament’s opening match against co-hosts Mexico—a poetic echo of the 2010 World Cup. Their group also includes South Korea and a yet-to-be-determined European opponent from the UEFA Playoff Path D.

This window marks Bafana’s first return to the pitch since their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign earlier this year, which ended in a Round of 16 exit at the hands of Cameroon.

Squad Notables: Returns and Absentees

The preliminary selection features several talking points, most notably the return of veteran playmaker Themba Zwane. ‘Mshishi’ last featured for the national team in October 2024, and his experience is expected to be vital in the build-up to the World Cup.

Other key inclusions include: Patrick Maswanganyi. The Orlando Pirates star earns a recall after impressive domestic form.  Mamelodi Sundowns striker Iqraam Rayners also returns to the fold to bolster the attacking options.

However, there were also significant omissions. Luther Singh and Gift Links remain overlooked despite their performances abroad, while midfield duo Bathusi Aubaas and Thalente Mbatha also miss out on this preliminary list. Notably, the squad continues a recent trend with no Kaizer Chiefs players making the cut.

Broos will monitor his players during the upcoming week before trimming the list down to the final squad.

“The matches against Panama are a critical component of our build-up. We need to face opposition that mirrors the intensity we will see in the World Cup,” Broos previously noted regarding the choice of opponents.

The final selection is expected to be announced next week Monday, 16 March.

BAFANA SQUAD