Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has announced a 38-member preliminary squad for upcoming international friendly matches against Panama later this month.
The South African senior men’s national team will play Panama twice, with matches scheduled in Durban and Cape Town as part of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The squad will later be reduced to 23 players before the games take place.
What happened?
South Africa’s national team coach Hugo Broos revealed a provisional 38-player squad on 9 March 2026 for two international friendlies against Panama.
The first match will take place at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Friday, 27 March 2026. The second game will follow at DHL Cape Town Stadium on Tuesday, 31 March 2026.
According to the South African Football Association, the matches form part of the team’s preparation programme ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July 2026.
The national team is scheduled to assemble in Johannesburg on Monday, 23 March 2026 before travelling for the matches.
The preliminary squad will be trimmed to 23 players in the coming days when Broos confirms his final squad for the fixtures.
Why it matters to fans
These matches give the national team an opportunity to test combinations and assess player form ahead of major international competitions.
Friendly matches also help the coaching staff evaluate both domestic and overseas-based players as South Africa continues preparations for global tournaments.
The games will also bring international football to two major stadiums, giving supporters in Durban and Cape Town a chance to watch Bafana Bafana at home.
What you need to know
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opponent | Panama |
| First match | 27 March 2026 |
| Venue | Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban |
| Second match | 31 March 2026 |
| Venue | DHL Cape Town Stadium |
| Preliminary squad | 38 players |
| Final squad | To be reduced to 23 players |
| Team assembly | 23 March 2026 in Johannesburg |
Key players in the preliminary squad
The 38-man squad includes a mix of experienced internationals and emerging players from local and overseas clubs.
Goalkeepers
- Ronwen Williams
- Ricardo Goss
- Sipho Chaine
- Renaldo Leaner
- Darren Johnson
Defenders
- Khuliso Mudau
- Olwethu Makhanya
- Deano van Rooyen
- Thabang Matuludi
- Vuyo Letlapa
- Tylon Smith
- Nkosinathi Sibisi
- Aubrey Modiba
Midfielders
- Tebogo Mokoena
- Jayden Adams
- Thalente Mbatha
- Ndamulelo Maphangule
- Mthetheleli Mthiyane
- Luke Le Roux
- Sphephelo Sithole
- Bongokuhle Hlongwane
Forwards
- Oswin Appollis
- Khulumani Ndamane
- Ime Okon
- Samukelo Kabini
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi
- Tshepang Moremi
- Evidence Makgopa
- Lyle Foster
- Iqraam Rayners
- Relebohile Mofokeng
- Themba Zwane
- Patrick Maswanganyi
- Yanela Mbuthuma
- Kamogelo Sebelebele
- Mohau Nkota
- Thapelo Morena
- Thapelo Maseko
What happens next
Coach Hugo Broos will soon announce the final 23-player squad for the two friendly matches.
Players selected in the final squad will report to the national team camp in Johannesburg on 23 March 2026 before preparations begin for the fixtures.
Supporters are expected to receive further updates from the South African Football Association regarding match arrangements and ticket information.
Where to get official updates
For confirmed squad announcements and match information, fans can follow updates from the South African Football Association and official Bafana Bafana platforms.
Unlock Exclusive Content!
Subscribe to the Pondoland Times weekly newsletter for trusted alerts on SASSA payments, NSFAS funding, and breaking local news. Get exclusive interviews, community features, and verified stories you can rely on—delivered straight to your inbox.
