Gqeberha is buzzing with excitement as Bafana Bafana prepares to face Zambia in a highly anticipated international friendly. The match, scheduled for 15 November at the iconic Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, is a crucial part of coach Hugo Broos' preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
This clash offers South African football fans a fantastic opportunity to see their national team, who are also bound for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in action on home soil. Kick-off is set for 6pm CAT, and details regarding ticketing will be announced shortly by the South African Football Association (SAFA).
Broos to Unveil Final Squad
Coach Hugo Broos is set to announce his final 23-man squad for the friendly match on 6 November at SAFA House. This announcement will follow the trimming down of the preliminary list that was released earlier this week.
Festive Atmosphere Promised at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is pulling out all the stops to ensure a festive atmosphere for fans attending the Bafana Bafana vs. Zambia match. In addition to the thrilling football action, attendees can look forward to a full day of entertainment, food vendors, museum tours, and a vibrant celebratory environment.
Boosting Local Economy
MBDA CEO, Anele Qaba, highlighted the positive impact of hosting such high-profile events on the local economy. He emphasized the benefits for the hospitality and tourism sectors, which are significant employers of the Bay's youth, anticipating a direct and indirect boost from the influx of visitors to the city.
The stadium's success in attracting top-tier sporting events is attributed to a deliberate strategy of building strong relationships with key sporting federations. Qaba expressed confidence that the upcoming fixture will be a memorable experience for fans, both inside and outside the stadium, thanks to proactive safety and security measures.