South Africa’s Bafana Bafana begin 2027 Afcon qualifying against Guinea

South Africa’s national team, the Bafana Bafana, assembled in Johannesburg on Sunday evening ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures against Guinea and Eritrea this month.

Several players joined the squad after representing their clubs in matches across the country the previous day. Samukele Kabini arrived at camp on Monday morning following an overnight journey from Norway.

Puso Dithejane reached Johannesburg from the United States on Monday evening, shortly before dinner, after travelling from Chicago.

Relebohile Mofokeng, Ime Okon, Olwethu Makhanya, Shandre Campbell, Thapelo Maseko and Sphephelo Sithole were expected to arrive later on Monday night.

Head coach Pitso Mosimane said Lebohang Maboe was carrying a minor injury and did not take part in training with the rest of the squad on Monday. The midfielder will be monitored by the South Africa medical team over the coming days.

South Africa will begin their qualifying campaign by hosting Guinea at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg.

Their second group match will be against Eritrea at Al-Salam Stadium in Cairo, Egypt, on Wednesday, 30 September 2026.

The Bafana Bafana will then conclude their schedule with an international friendly against Egypt at Cairo International Stadium on 4 October 2026.