September 21, 16:00IOL

South Africa National Team Schedule for Heritage Week: Proteas, Bafana, and Springboks

South African sports fans can enjoy the national consciousness celebration during Heritage Week as the Proteas, Bafana Bafana, and Springboks take to the international stage over three separate match days.

Proteas Target Top-Tier Plan

Action in green and gold colors will begin on Thursday, September 24th. The Proteas will face fierce rivals from Australia in the first ODI at the Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Cricket Stadium in Durban. This match kicks off a three-match ODI series, followed by encounters in Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth, which will serve as important preparation for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cups 2027, jointly hosted domestically.

Mosimane Begins Second Tenure of Bafana

For the first time since the 2026 FIFA World Cup, South Africans will see Bafana Bafana play. On Saturday, September 26th, Pitso Mosimane will lead Bafana Bafana in his first official match after returning to the coaching role. The national team will host Guinea at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto as part of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, marking Mosimane's debut on the bench after his appointment at the beginning of this month to replace Belgian Hugo Broos. Mosimane has retained the core squad that reached the 2026 World Cup playoffs in North America while adding new players for the start of the 2027 East Africa qualification campaign.

Boks Tackle Selection Task in Perth

The sporting weekend will conclude on Sunday, September 27th, when the Springboks meet Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Following a 3-1 series victory over the All Blacks, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus must now find the right balance in his player squad. As players such as Damian de Allende and Pieter-Steph du Toit miss this match, the Test in Perth will provide an opportunity for players like Cameron Hanekom, Handrie Pollard, and Paul de Villiers to gain full game experience while Erasmus continues to build squad depth for the 2027 World Cup.

Similar stories

iol.co.zaSeptember 17, 22:39

Pirates defeat Durban City; Bafana Bafana squad players participated in the match

The Orlando Pirates team defeated Durban City with a score of 2-0 at the Orlando Stadium on Thursday. Several players called up to the 'Bafana Bafana' squad under Pitso Mosimane's new regime took part in the match.

This match provided an additional opportunity to assess the players selected for national matches, as Mosimane's final squad was confirmed before the upcoming 'Bafana' games.

Chain demonstrated his class

Goalkeeper Sipho Chain showed good play, even though the Pirates generally played average. He had to act when Durban City tried to counterattack and made several important saves, especially in the first half, which could have ended with a 2-0 lead for the visitors. Chain's composure in dangerous moments helped the Pirates maintain their advantage and achieve a 'clean sheet.'

Sibisi demonstrated leadership qualities

Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi displayed professional defensive play. He effectively marshaled the defense alongside his defensive partner and helped the team withstand threats from City. His experience and leadership qualities were evident as the Pirates controlled the match and kept their goal secure.

Sima demonstrated self-control

For 23-year-old Lebone Sima, it was a memorable evening as he scored a goal in his first call-up to the 'Bafana Bafana' squad. Sima opened the scoring for the Pirates in the 57th minute after already having played a decisive defensive game. The young player looked composed throughout the match and will gain a lot of confidence from the goal scored while under high scrutiny.

Sebelebele - Man of the Match

Kamogelo Sebelebele did not face serious problems in defense, allowing the fullback to advance more often and participate more actively in attacks. He looked dangerous when moving into advanced positions and provided the Pirates with an attacking outlet on the flank. Although Sebelebele could not add a goal or an assist to his game, his attacking mindset was noticeable.

Mbutuma struggled with consistency

Yanela Mbutuma could not influence the game as much as he would have liked. The forward showed several bright moments but failed to consistently dominate the game or make a decisive contribution. Mbutuma will strive to show a stronger performance when given another chance to impress Mosimane.

Appollis struggled with rhythm

Oswin Appollis came onto the field in the 70th minute but had little impact during his time on the pitch. The forward struggled to get into the game's rhythm and could not provide significant attacking input after coming on. Given the competition for spots in Mosimane's 'Bafana' squad, Appollis hopes to receive more influential minutes in upcoming international matches.

Poggenpole's committed play

Brooklyn Poggenpole was the only 'Bafana' representative in the Durban City squad and demonstrated committed play despite the team losing. The midfielder was solid and resolute in the center of the park, actively competing and helping City remain competitive. Although the result was not favorable for City, Poggenpole can draw inspiration from his solid individual play, aiming to secure a place in Mosimane's plans.