Pic Credit: SAFA.net
Bafana Bafana will officially kick off their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign against Guinea at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, 26 September 2026. The fixture marks a dramatic new chapter for the national team, serving as new head coach Pitso Mosimane’s first match back in charge.
Mosimane took over the reins from Belgian strategist Hugo Broos just days ahead of the critical qualifier. The former Bafana mentor is now tasked with guiding South Africa towards another AFCON tournament appearance, with SAFA officials calling on local football fans to fill the Soweto venue to mark the start of a new era.
“We encourage families and fans to come in their numbers to support the team as we begin this new era under coach Pitso Mosimane,” said SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan.
Packed September/October international schedule
Following their opening home assignment in Soweto, South Africa will embark on a busy international travel schedule:
- 30 September 2026 (AFCON Qualifier): Bafana Bafana travel to Cairo, Egypt, to face Eritrea at the Al-Salam Stadium for their second Group match.
- 4 October 2026 (International Friendly): The team remains in Cairo to play a high-profile friendly against hosts Egypt at the Cairo International Stadium, closing out the September/October international window.
Mosimane announced his preliminary squad for the two AFCON qualifiers last week and is set to name his final squad in the coming days as match preparations intensify.
Matchday ticket details
The opening AFCON qualifier against Guinea promises to be a stern initial test for Mosimane’s second stint at the helm. Matchday tickets and hospitality packages are officially on sale:
- Venue: Orlando Stadium, Soweto
- Date & Time: Saturday, 26 September 2026
- Adult Tickets: R100
- Children Under 12: R40
Further squad announcements and matchday logistics are expected in the build-up to the Soweto clash.


