Khothatso Leballo

South Africa will take on Panama in two international friendly matches as they prepare themselves for the more demanding global tournament, where they are in what appears to be a tricky group. Their Belgian coach has confirmed what they intend to achieve at this competition.

The Premier Soccer League campaign continues with a lot to play for among teams. At stake is winning the title race, earning a spot to play continental football next season, as well as avoiding the dreaded relegation at the end of the season.

The Buccaneers ran riot to register their biggest winning margin of the season so far. It was a commanding display that underlined their intentions at a crucial stage of the campaign. The emphatic victory could also give title rivals Mamelodi Sundowns plenty to reflect on as the race for the Premier Soccer League crown has intensified.

The 21-year-old forward started Amakhosi’s last two matches and finally found the back of the net on Saturday. He has struggled for game time this season but made the most of his opportunity when handed a place in the starting line-up. His latest exploits could now help him earn the trust of the coaches and secure more playing minutes going forward.

The Soweto giants endured a difficult spell, suffering four consecutive defeats that raised concerns about their squad depth and quality. However, they have managed to steady the ship, bouncing back with victories in their last two matches. One of Amakhosi’s coaches has now pointed to what he believes were key factors behind that losing run.

The Brazilians are in West Africa as they continue their quest to lift the continental trophy for the first time since 2016. After finishing as losing finalists in this competition last season, they are determined to go one step further this time around. With that painful memory still fresh, they are pushing hard to turn last year’s disappointment into continental glory.

The 27-year-old centre-back has been with the Cape Winelands outfit since July 2023 and has now attracted interest from the Soweto giants. However, a move to Naturena will depend on whether Amakhosi decide to reinforce their central defence after recently facing a crisis in that department.

The former Cape Town City attacker has previously played under the Belgian coach when he featured for South Africa in September 2021 in a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe. But despite the good form he has been enjoying this season, the 27-year-old is being ignored as he comes in with versatility, offering back-up as a left attacking player or left-back.

After ending a four-match losing streak with victory over Durban City last weekend, the Soweto giants will be eager to follow up on that when they face Magesi FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday. They know backing up that result is crucial as they look to reassert themselves in the closing stages of the season. Another win would significantly boost their hopes of finishing in the top three and securing rights to play continental football next term.

The South Africa coach is making bold decisions as he shapes his squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Belgian tactician has made a few surprise omissions from his squad and has explained that his selections are based on form as he tries to build a competitive team for the global football tournament.

The 20-year-old has risen rapidly in his club career, making notable strides in a short space of time. Since his professional debut in March 2025, he has already secured a move overseas and continues to attract praise as a player destined for greatness. However, his switch to America did not earn a nod from his national team coach.

A photo finish could be on the cards in this season’s bid for the Premier Soccer League crown, with the battle likely to go down to the wire. Masandawana and the Soweto giants are locked in a tight race, constantly exchanging top spot as they push for supremacy. As things stand, it remains too close to call, with no clear favourite emerging between the two heavyweights.

South Africa have begun their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be staged in North America. The former Cameroon coach has unveiled his squad for the friendly matches scheduled at the end of March. As expected, the tactician made some surprising selections, but he has moved to justify one of those decisions.

The Brazilians' recruitment of talent from overseas has largely proven to be spot-on in recent years, with players like Marcelo Allende, Brayan Leon, Arthur Sales, Nuno Santos, Miguel Reisinho and former forward Lucas Ribeiro Costa making a strong impact. Their success in identifying and integrating foreign quality has strengthened the Brazilians’ dominance domestically and making themselves a continental powerhouse. However, the club has also faced criticism for overlooking a high-performing Portugal-based talent who, some believe, could have added more value to the squad.

The 27-year-old custodian has been in South Africa since February 2021, initially turning out for JDR Stars as he began his journey in the country. He has since featured at AFCON with his national team, significantly raising his profile on the continental stage. However, despite that pedigree, he is yet to play top-flight league football in South Africa, an opportunity his growing status appears to demand.

The 24-year-old has rediscovered his top form, staking a strong claim for a return to regular national team call-ups like in the past, and he has opened up on his rejuvenation. Now firmly re-established as a key figure for the Brazilians, with just three months to go to the global football tournament.

Although he is yet to rediscover his best form, the 28-year-old has already made his presence felt in the Masandawana dressing room. He has shaken off a nagging thigh injury and is showing he has adapted to the Portuguese coach’s system of play.

The Nigeria international has not played competitive football since September 2024. After completing his move to the Maroons in February, he has been forced to wait longer than expected to make his maiden appearance. His continued absence from matchday squads has now been clarified.