South Africa’s clash with Zambia in Gqeberha on Saturday may be labelled a friendly, but both nations know the stakes go far beyond that.
With the Africa Cup of Nations just weeks away and World Cup qualifying momentum to maintain, this fixture offers a crucial test of depth and rhythm for two sides at different stages of progress.
Coach Hugo Broos has insisted that complacency won’t creep into Bafana’s preparations, urging his players to treat this match “like a qualifier.” His squad features new inclusions such as Masindi Nemtajela and Keletso Makgalwa, both aiming to impress before AFCON selections are finalised.
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Confidence remains high after South Africa’s recent 3–0 win over Rwanda in World Cup qualifying, a performance that underlined their growing balance between structure and creativity.
Zambia, meanwhile, arrive in transition under new coach Moses Sichone, who replaced Avram Grant. The Chipolopolo have managed just one win in their last ten matches and are seeking stability ahead of an AFCON group that includes Morocco, Mali, and Comoros. With experienced players like Patson Daka and Fashion Sakala, they still carry threat on the counter but face questions over defensive consistency.
Expect Bafana to dominate possession and tempo in front of a vocal home crowd at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, while Zambia look to rediscover rhythm under new leadership.
Photo: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images
