Bafana Bafana Confirm Panama Friendlies Ahead of 2026 Global Tournament

South African Football Association has officially confirmed that South Africa national soccer team will face Panama national football team in two international friendly matches next month as part of preparations for the 2026 global showpiece.

The first encounter will take place at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Friday, 27 March 2026. The two nations will then meet again on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, at the DHL Cape Town Stadium.

These matches form a crucial part of head coach Hugo Broos’ build-up programme ahead of the 2026 global tournament, which will be staged across United States, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July 2026. With the competition drawing closer, Broos is expected to use the friendlies to fine-tune his squad, test combinations and sharpen match fitness.

The Durban clash will also mark Bafana Bafana’s return to Moses Mabhida Stadium for the first time since their tense goalless draw against Zimbabwe in an October 2025 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

(Image: @BafanaBafana/ X)

Broos’ men returned to winning ways in their next outing, sealing qualification in style with a commanding 3–0 victory over Rwanda in Mbombela – a result that reignited confidence and momentum within the squad.

Facing Panama presents a different tactical challenge. The Central American side will offer physical intensity and pace, giving South Africa an opportunity to measure themselves against opposition from another continent just months before the world gathers for the global spectacle.

Ticket prices have been set to encourage strong local support. Entry will start at R80 for adults and R50 for children under the age of 12. Supporters can purchase tickets from Thursday, 26 February 2026.

With the countdown to June well underway, the two fixtures in Durban and Cape Town represent more than just friendlies – they are a final dress rehearsal on home soil before Bafana Bafana step onto the biggest stage in world football.