Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has made it clear that the upcoming international friendly against Zambia is not a casual fixture but a critical part of South Africa’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Despite already qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Broos insists that the match will be treated with the same importance as any competitive qualifier.
South Africa will host Zambia on November 15, 2025, at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha, and Broos has demanded full commitment and intensity from his squad. In a clear message to his players, he stressed that every match, even a friendly, requires complete focus. “Every game demands full focus and commitment. We play to win, and this one is no different,” Broos said, underlining the need for players to approach the encounter with a competitive mindset.
This match serves as a final opportunity for Broos to assess his squad before finalizing his AFCON selections. The coach highlighted the significance of the fixture, emphasizing that losing would be unacceptable. “I expect every player to approach this game with the same seriousness as a qualifier. This is not a holiday. It’s also my last chance to assess a few players more closely before finalizing the squad,” Broos added.
Broos also expressed his expectation for the team to show the same mentality and desire to win that has characterized their performances over the past months. He emphasized that the Zambia clash is not just an opportunity for tactical adjustments but a chance to solidify Bafana Bafana’s reputation on the continental stage. “This is a game to confirm again how good we are and what a good team we are,” he said.
Bafana Bafana have been in intensive training under Broos in Johannesburg and will travel to Gqeberha for the match. The coach’s clear goal is for the team to deliver a top-level performance, reaffirming their readiness for the challenges of AFCON 2025. Broos’ demand for high intensity and commitment underscores his determination to keep the team focused on their ultimate goal of success in Morocco.
