Bafana Bafana’s head coach Hugo Broos has declared Saturday’s international friendly against Zambia in Gqeberha a pivotal match for his squad. Emphasising the importance of maintaining the team’s position in the top ten on the continent, Broos views this encounter as crucial ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup draw scheduled for early December.
Set to take place at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, the match represents a significant step in Bafana’s preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) tournament in Morocco next month. With this being the only confirmed warm-up match ahead of the continental showcase, the stakes are undeniably high.Although Zambia is currently ranked lower than Bafana Bafana, Broos remains fully aware of the challenges they present.
“I want to win this game on Saturday. Why I want to win it, it’s important for our ranking. We always want to be in the top ten, and if possible, we want to return at least to 9th. Besides, we are just one month away from the Afcon,” said Broos.The friendly offers Broos one last chance to evaluate his squad before they head to Morocco, especially regarding the performance of two promising players who have been excelling at their clubs. “Now, we are in the national team; the step is a bit higher,” he noted, highlighting the need for players to adapt swiftly to international competition.
As the team gathered for their first training session in Johannesburg, Broos affirmed the urgency of their preparations, stating, “We don’t have time to experiment too much. That’s why I said 75% of the Afcon team is already there.”
With just over a month before the tournament kicks off, there is a clear focus on getting the team battle-ready without risking disruption to their strategy.Broos has identified Angola, who will provide an entirely different style of football at the Afcon, as a challenge that requires thorough preparation.
“We have to prepare for any eventuality, and we will be ready,” he promised, instilling confidence that Bafana Bafana will adapt and thrive against varied styles of play.Following their training session in Johannesburg, the team will depart for Gqeberha on Thursday afternoon, carrying with them the hopes of a nation eager for a strong performance in the upcoming tournaments.