Panama defender outlines what they will gain from ‘very good’ Bafana clash

Panama international Amir Murillo believes the upcoming friendlies against Bafana Bafana will provide a crucial test as his team ramps up its preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Central American side is scheduled to play South Africa in a two-match series during the March international window. The first encounter will be held in Durban on March 27, followed by a second match in Cape Town on March 31.

Panama have been acclimatising to local conditions, initially holding sessions at their hotel before their first outdoor training session on Tuesday evening ahead of the opening game.

Panama star on what Bafana game will address

Speaking to the Panamanian Football Federation (Fepafut), Murillo emphasised the team’s focus on finalising their strategy for the upcoming World Cup cycle.

“We want to have a clear idea of what the coach wants and what he has in mind for the World Cup and everything that’s coming for us,” the Besiktas defender stated as quoted by Soccer Laduma.

“It’s a preparation match. It’s what helps us; it gives us the shape, it gives us the style of play that we’ve shown before,” he continued. “After a long time, after the last game we played, I’ve come back to what we’ve already done and have a clear idea for the World Cup.”

Besiktas right-back lauds South Africa players

Murillo, who missed the previous national team fixtures, expressed his delight at rejoining the squad and acknowledged the challenge that South Africa will present.

“I am physically good, mentally very good too. I’m really looking forward to being here after not being able to play the last games with the national team,” he said.

When asked about his opponents, Murillo showed respect for Bafana Bafana’s quality. “It’s a great team. I think we all know what South Africa is like. They have good players, and we hope it’s a great game for us and for them too.”