By Ntokozo Magongo and Sibusiso Masilela
South Africa’s Bafana Bafana Coach Hugo Broos is adamant that the National Team, Sihlangu will be defensive when they clash in an intentional friendly match on Friday (October 13) at FNB Stadium, kick-off 6pm.
Sihlangu is yet to taste victory against the neighbouring country having lost all the six matches they have played in the past decade. Broos said they were looking for a country at the same level with Lesotho who they will be playing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
According to Romy Titus, the Bafana Bafana Media and Communications Officer, Broos was clear that they were looking for a country that would not try to win against them but will be all out to avoid defeat. He believes this will give his side good preparations for the game against Lesotho.
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Meanwhile, Sihlangu head coach Dominic Kunene has promised to put a good fight against Bafana Bafana during the international friendly match slated for Friday afternoon at FNB Stadium. The two neighbouring countries will be using the match to prepare for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers which are set to commence in November.
“We will go all out even though it won’t be easy match and I am confident that my players will fight for the country. We will try to avoid mistakes by being cautious since we will be playing a strong opposition. Our preparations have gone well, and the boys are geared up for the clash,” he said.
The nation’s pride is likely to be without the services of Richards Bay FC striker Justice Figareido who is injured against the 1996 AFCON Champions. The match will be broadcasted live on SABC sports and fans will part with E40 entrance fee to watch the match.
South African fans have slammed the South African Football Association for not decentralizing Bafana Bafana matches as the Hugo Bross led charges usually host their matches at the iconic FIFA World Cup venue in Nasrec, Johannesburg.
The fans stated that the match between the neighbouring nations should have been played at Mbombela Stadium. Sihlangu lost 3-1 against Bafana Bafana in their last encounter during the COSAFA Cup in Durban in June.