Hugo Broos Discloses Extent of 2026 World Cup Squad Already Decided

South Africa is due to face Panama in another friendly match just four days after the previous one, scheduled for Tuesday at the packed Cape Town Stadium, where Broos mentions he remains undecided on certain spots.

Everything hinges somewhat on the players condition he explained. Possibly over the coming weeks, some may stop featuring for their clubs, suffer knocks, or face similar issues.

Yet around 70 to 75 per cent of the lineup is fixed in my mind and unlikely to shift, regardless of a poor showing in tomorrows match. Still, a handful of roles need finalising in the weeks ahead prior to confirming my picks.

Bafana drew 1-1 with Panama during their initial tour fixture in Durban on Friday evening, a match where the home side controlled proceedings yet failed to convert multiple opportunities.

We put in a solid performance on Friday and aim to replicate it tomorrow versus a strong rival, so choosing to meet Panama twice was wise Broos noted.

Friday served as an effective trial, and I anticipate another challenging and capable foe tomorrow. Thus it suits our build up well, since the primary aim of these two encounters with Panama is gearing up for our World Cup opener against Mexico in two months.

Broos confirmed that every member of the 23 man panel is available for Tuesdays clash and plans to adjust the starting eleven from the Durban outing.

As mentioned before, our December Afcon showing fell short for assorted factors. Hence I sought to foster greater resolve and order within the group, and we managed that on Friday. I felt pleased with the display.

I appreciated the determination, the adherence to rules, and overall, bar a couple of aspects. We held a review this morning, and the squad understands several minor points requiring improvement.

Additionally, I enjoyed the supporters turnout on Friday, which had been a slight uncertainty given the lukewarm response post Afcon, and understandably so.

Nevertheless, the South African supporters filled the stands once more, and we expect a complete venue tomorrow.