By Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has officially trimmed his preliminary selection down to a final 30-man squad ahead of South Africa’s upcoming 2027 CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
After initially casting a wide net with a 35-member preliminary group, Mosimane finalized his roster following careful evaluation. The seasoned tactician emphasized that selections were heavily dictated by current player form, international experience, fitness levels, and the management of ongoing injuries within the pool.
The Road to Pamoja 2027
The stakes are high as Bafana Bafana embark on their journey toward the 2027 tournament, officially named “Pamoja 2027,” which will run from 19 June to 17 July 2027. In a historic first, the continental showpiece will be co-hosted by three East African nations—Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda—marking the first time the tournament returns to East Africa since Ethiopia hosted the event in 1976.
South African Football Association (SAFA) President Dr. Danny Jordaan expressed immense enthusiasm regarding the historic nature of the upcoming campaign. “We were all looking forward to our first team to be announced… We are looking forward to going to Pamoja 2027,” Jordaan noted.
Fixture Schedule and Logistics
Bafana Bafana are scheduled to assemble in camp on Sunday, 20 September 2026, to kick off preparations. Their qualifying path features a demanding trio of fixtures over the coming weeks:
- Opener vs. Guinea: South Africa launches its AFCON qualifying campaign at home, hosting Guinea at Johannesburg’s iconic Orlando Stadium.
- Second Match vs. Eritrea: Bafana will travel north to face Eritrea at the Al-Salam Stadium in Cairo, Egypt, on Wednesday, 30 September 2026.
- International Friendly vs. Egypt: The squad will conclude their demanding international block with a high-profile friendly against Egypt at the Cairo International Stadium on 4 October 2026.
Ticket Information for the Orlando Stadium Clash
Fans eager to back the boys in yellow and green at Orlando Stadium can now secure their seats, with tickets officially live on Ticketpro.
- Adult Tickets: R100,00
- Kids Under 12: R40,00 (Note: Child tickets must be purchased alongside at least one adult ticket)
- · Hospitality Packages: Available through SAIL by contacting 082 805 3150 or emailing bookings@sail.co.za
- Ticketing Link: Ticketpro – South Africa vs. Guinea
With Mosimane at the helm and a balanced squad blending youth and seasoned campaigners, the nation will be watching closely as Bafana Bafana look to make a strong early statement in their quest for continental glory.
