Hugo Bross and Bafana’s preparations for the start of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers next month and Afcon in January and February continue! Tuesday will see them travel to face Ivory Coast, but first, a home encounter with Eswatini awaits.
South Africa vs Eswatini
International Friendly
Friday, 13 October 2023 – 18:00
FNB Stadium
SOUTH AFRICA
Not only are Hugo Broos’ men yet to lose a game this year (with exception of the COSAFA Cup), but they have also improved as a team under his mentorship as we head into the 2023 AFCON showdown in Ivory Coast next January.
This Friday, a tricky home fixture against neighbors Eswatini awaits them as they look to build on their recent form which has seen them defeat Morocco, Liberia and DR Congo among others this year.
There has also been a positively notable development in Bafana’s attackers who have had splendid starts to the new season in various league division across the globe.
Like Bafana legend Siyabonga Nomvethe, I have been very pleased by the likes of Percy Tau, Lyle Foster, Lebo Mothiba, Zakhele Lepasa, Monnapule Saleng and Cassius Mailula who have hit their best form at the right time. They are also producing the goods for Bafana which is always welcomed.
And this will only give Hugo Broos a headache when it comes to selections in these upcoming friendlies, but more importantly this type of competition is great for the national team!
TO WIN MATCH
BAFANA BAFANA 4/10 | DRAW 31/10 | ESWATINI 6/1
ESWATINI
Dominic Kunene’s men failed to qualify for the 2023 AFCON tournament after finishing at the bottom of Group B with no wins recorded. They would have put that disappointment behind them and look ahead to this crucial international break which will give them a clear measure of their progress as they too head to the 2023 World Cup qualifiers in November.
This Friday expect them to come out guns blazing as they will look to upset Bafana Bafana in their own backyard after failing to overcome Burkina Faso in their last outing. A concern for them will be their inability to break down tough defenses – with just three goals scored this year.
As underdogs in this one, Eswatini will have a long night trying to contain the in-form Lyle Foster with his physique and skill in the final third.
Verdict: South Africa – 4/10
There will be little room for error when these two meet. Hugo Broos is still trying to come up with his best 11 ahead of AFCON and I expect every player in that team to go all out and give their best. An early goal would be ideal as it would allow the hosts to grab control of the game, but Eswatini should not be underestimated here.
Sihlangu Semnikati will relish that underdog title but will certainly gain confidence if Bafana do not punish them. Also, fans will play a very crucial role in this one and bafana will hope to enjoy the majority of the support
