Kagisho Dikgacoi has called on SAFA to arrange matches against teams from various continents, highlighting the benefits it would bring to Bafana Bafana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
SAFA has confirmed back-to-back international friendly matches against Panama, scheduled to take place in South Africa on dates yet to be announced.
However, Dikgacoi—the former Fulham and Crystal Palace midfielder—believes this is not enough. He states that Panama is a relatively weak opponent and that Bafana Bafana need tougher matches to accurately gauge their abilities.
Bafana Bafana’s last World Cup appearance was in 2010 when they hosted the tournament. Dikgacoi was a key player in that squad, famously providing the assist for Siphiwe Tshabalala’s opening goal against Mexico.
WHAT DIKGACOI SAID ABOUT BAFANA BAFANA
In an interview with FARPost, Dikgacoi said the team’s preparations for a global tournament will ultimately reflect their results, and is calling for SAFA to arrange more challenging fixtures against teams from different continents.
“I think SAFA can do better in that regard. I hope they arrange more friendlies against tougher opponents from different continents, because you never know where we’ll end up in the World Cup. Each continent has its unique style of play, and it would be beneficial for Bafana to experience that kind of challenge,”said Dikgacoi.
“I’m hopeful SAFA will bring in stronger opponents to give the team confidence, help them identify mistakes, and show areas for improvement.
“Bafana needs more friendlies, and the right kind of friendlies, to get the best preparation for the big stage. It’s crucial we face teams that push us, test us, and help us grow. They need tough love to prepare them for this stage.”
Bafana Bafana qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with coach Hugo Broos making history as the first coach to lead them to this competition since Carlos Queiroz in 2002. They are in Group A alongside co-hosts Mexico, South Korea, and the winner of a UEFA play-off winner.
The tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19, 2026. This will be the first time three countries are co-hosting the World Cup.
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