Panama news

The Masandawana star has been an undisputed number one choice under Hugo Broos. After a generally underwhelming campaign in the Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco, eyes will be keen to see whether the Belgian will go for another goalkeeper. Apart from Williams, other custodians have had an impressive run in the season so far, expecting to attract the Belgians' attention.

The former Mamelodi Sundowns star appeared to be on the rise after joining the Buccaneers before the start of this season. He even earned a place in the national team squad for the 2025 AFCON tournament. However, limited game time at the club level has seen him fall out of the national team picture, denting his chances of featuring at the global tournament in North America.

The legendary goalkeeper has taken a serious look at the current goalkeeping situation in South Africa, raising concerns about the overall level. While his verdict might be discouraging, he has proposed possible solutions that he believes could help improve the situation. However, his assessment and suggestions are likely to spark debate among fans and experts alike.

The South Africa head coach appears to have stepped back from his previous assertion that he would retire following the upcoming global football showpiece. The veteran Belgian tactician, who has revitalised the 1996 African champions since 2021, now suggests that a successful campaign on the global stage could alter his long-term plans.

Following an unconvincing outing at the 2025 AFCON finals, South Africa is back in action. They host Panama in an international friendly match at Moses Mbahida Stadium on Friday as both teams prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

We have three South Africa vs Panama predictions for their friendly international on Friday evening, including value on the match result bet.

There has been a massive debate about the 21-year-old who has been playing either wide or centrally. Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, questions have been asked about the best role for 'President ya ma 2k' as he is commonly referred to, since he can create and finish as his overall stats show.

The 48-year-old has been in charge of the East African state since March 2025, marking a year into his first role as a national team coach. He arrived in Nairobi fresh from a stint as Manchester United’s forwards coach. That pedigree raised expectations for him as he stepped into the international arena.

The Premier Soccer League clubs strengthened in the short January transfer window in their bid to realise their set objectives. While some players have settled and delivered for their respective teams, others have struggled to make an impact at their clubs.

There has been criticism of SAFA for choosing Central American opponents for the upcoming international friendlies. The backlash has also focused on the decision to face the same team twice instead of arranging matches against different opponents.

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.

When Panama were confirmed as South Africa's opponents during the international break, questions were asked whether the Central Americans would give Bafana Bafana the right test. However, the national team coach has explained the financial constraints that South Africa would have faced if they were to welcome top-ranking nations for the friendlies.

The 24-year-old has been excellent for the defending Premier Soccer League champions this season after initial struggles. With the national team preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the former Stellenbosch player is seen as an individual who can help Mzansi deliver. However, he has to prove he is ready for that in international friendlies.