Themba Zwane makes his long-waited return for Bafana Bafana as he is included in Hugo Broos’ squad for the international friendly matches against Panama.
- Bafana coach Hugo Broos named a 23-man squad for friendlies against Panama, with notable inclusions like Themba Zwane and Renaldo Leaner, while key players like Sipho Chaine and Tylon Smith were omitted.
- South Africa will face Panama on 27 March at Moses Mabhida Stadium and 31 March at Cape Town Stadium, marking the debut of their new adidas kit and their final home match before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- These friendlies serve as Broos’ last chance to evaluate his squad and finalise selections ahead of the World Cup in June.
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Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has named his 23-man squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Panama later this month.
South Africa, currently ranked 60th in the world, will host 33rd-ranked Panama at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on 27 March (18:30), before the two sides meet again on 31 March at Cape Town Stadium (19:00) in the Mother City.
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The first fixture will mark the debut of Bafana’s new adidas kit, set for nationwide release on 21 March. The second encounter, meanwhile, carries added significance – it will be South Africa’s final home match before the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off in June.
Broos’ squad announcement will spark debate, with a number of notable omissions raising eyebrows.
In goal, Orlando Pirates’ first-choice shot-stopper Sipho Chaine has been left out, with the in-form Renaldo Leaner earning a call-up alongside regulars in the goalkeeping department, captain Ronwen Williams and Ricardo Goss.
Defensively, Ime Okon is handed a long-awaited opportunity to represent the national side, as Broos continues to blend youth with experience. However, Tylon Smith, who featured at the Africa Cup of Nations, misses out.
The midfield sees the return of Jayden Adams after a prolonged absence from the national set-up, with his recent form for Mamelodi Sundowns earning him a recall, while Luke Le Roux is omitted.
Perhaps the biggest talking point is the return of fan favourite Themba Zwane.
The 36-year-old, who battled back from a lengthy injury lay-off ahead of last year’s Afcon but did not make the squad, is now back in the fold at a crucial juncture in the build-up to the World Cup.
There was no place for Thapelo Morena, Mohau Nkota or Iqraam Rayners, as Broos instead recalled Bongokuhle Hlongwane and included Thapelo Maseko.
With World Cup selection looming, this squad represents more than just two friendlies – it is Broos’ final opportunity to fine-tune his options before naming his squad for the global showpiece in May.
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has named the final team to face Panama in two international friendly matches later this month. Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium and DHL Cape Town Stadium will host the two matches against the Central American country.#BafanaPride@SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/twuPFvtoda
— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) March 19, 2026
