Chaine Misses Out, Zwane And Adams Return For Bafana Against Panama

Bafana Bafana have recalled Themba Zwane, Jayden Adams, Thapelo Maseko and Bongokuhle Hlongwane for their upcoming international friendlies against Panama later this month.

Zwane returns to the national team for the first time since suffering an ACL injury in October 2024 during the Africa Cup of Nations. He subsequently missed the 2025 AFCON in Morocco due to ongoing fitness issues.

Adams also makes his comeback after a slow start to the season. Since the resumption of the PSL following AFCON in January, he has re-established himself as a key figure in midfield for Mamelodi Sundowns.

Germany-based defender Ime Okon has also been recalled after previously withdrawing from the squad due to injury. His inclusion comes as Siyabonga Ngezana misses out through injury.

Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine has been left out of the squad. He is replaced by Renaldo Leaner of Sekhukhune United and Ricardo Goss, while captain Ronwen Williams retains his place.

Bafana Bafana will take on Panama at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 27 March, before the two sides meet again four days later at DHL Stadium.

These fixtures form part of South Africa’s final preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico in June.