Bafana Bafana beef up technical team ahead of AFCON, ready for Ghana litmus test

Bafana Bafana will host Ghana at Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, in what will serve as their final tune-up before departing for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The clash against the Black Stars is seen as a crucial litmus test for Hugo Broos’ men, who leave for North Africa the following day to begin their campaign in Group B.

South Africa’s preparations have gone beyond the pitch, with the technical and medical departments reinforced to ensure the team is fully equipped for the continental showpiece.

Bongani Manuku has been added to the medical team, while Senior Performance Analyst Sinesipho Mali will be joined by Under-20 World Cup analyst Tinashe-Shingai Mukandatsama, strengthening the backroom staff tasked with providing detailed insights and support.

Coach Hugo Broos acknowledged that unlike in Côte d’Ivoire 2024, where Bafana Bafana surprised many en route to a bronze medal, opponents will now be well-prepared for South Africa.

“We showed that we are a good team. Now everyone knows it, and they will be ready to fight against us. Winning against South Africa today is much different than two years ago,” he said, stressing the need to adapt quickly from their opening match against Angola on 22 December.

The squad has also welcomed back Elias Mokwana after a lengthy absence, while newcomer Tylon Smith expressed his determination to seize any opportunity in Morocco.

With Egypt, Angola, and Zimbabwe awaiting in Group B, the Ghana encounter offers Bafana Bafana a valuable test of their readiness, both tactically and mentally, before the AFCON battle begins.