US EditionZwane Returns as Broos Recasts Bafana Squad for Panama with the FIFA World Cup in Mind
Coach Hugo Broos named a 23-man squad featuring Themba Zwane's return and several recalls ahead of two friendlies that finalize World Cup preparations.
- On March 19, 2026 Hugo Broos, Bafana Bafana coach, named a 23-man squad for two friendlies versus Panama later this month, with the first match debuting the new adidas kit at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
- Broos is using the matches as his final chance to evaluate players before the World Cup selection process, blending youth with experience including Ime Okon and Jayden Adams.
- Fan-Favourite Themba Zwane returns after a lengthy injury lay-off, while Renaldo Leaner and Jayden Adams earn call-ups; notable absences include Sipho Chaine, Tylon Smith, Thapelo Morena, Mohau Nkota, and Iqraam Rayners.
- Broos' announcement is likely to spark debate due to omitted players, while the second friendly gains importance as South Africa's final home match before the 2026 World Cup.
- With World Cup selection looming, these friendlies later this month act as pivotal final evaluations ahead of Broos naming his squad in May and will directly influence the 2026 FIFA World Cup roster.
10 Articles
10 Articles
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Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has defended his decision to include Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi in the current squad. The 30-year-old defender has not won the hearts of Buccaneers fans lately following the team’s defeats to Mamelodi Sundowns and Casric Stars. Against the second division side, Bhodlela missed a penalty, which ultimately saw Pirates crash out of the Nedbank Cup. Some fans were surprised to see the Pirates defend…
South Africa Recall Zwane, Hlongwane For Panama Friendlies
Veteran playmaker Themba Zwane, and wingers Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Thapelo Maseko, have been recalled to the Bafana Bafana squad for the two home international friendlies against Panama later this month, raising their hopes of going to the 2026 World Cup. Coach Hugo Broos has made several changes, some enforced by injury, after admitting he was desperately disappointed with the side’s showing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and saying they n…
Bafana Coach Hugo Broos Names Squad To Face Panama In 2 International Friendlies
Johannesburg – Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has named the final team to face Panama in two international friendly matches later this month. The games will be played at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium and DHL Cape Town Stadium. The omission of Orlando Pirates’ goal minder Sipho Chaine raised eyebrows. Instead, Coach Broos included Sekhukhune United’s Renaldo Leaner. He also stated that Siwelele FC goalie Ricardo Goss was a more suitable substitu…
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