Sibisi Promises A Show Against Zambia In Bafana’s Last Match

Bafana Bafana defender Nkosinathi Sibisi has called on the people of Gqeberha to fill Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium as the 2026 World Cup-bound South Africa prepare for their final home match before AFCON 2025.

Bafana Bafana, who are still on cloud nine as they qualified for the FIFA World Cup last month, will play their last game at home when they host Zambia in a friendly match at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday at 15:00.

After this encounter, the team will travel to Morocco for the Africa Cup of Nations, which will take place from 21 December to 18 January.

“For the people of Gqeberha, we just ask you to come in numbers—you never disappoint us whenever we come there,” said Sibisi.

“We hope that on Saturday it will be the same. We will fight for every challenge, every ball, and we will make you happy.”

Bafana Bafana have fond memories of Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, where they hammered Congo 5-0 in the AFCON qualifiers last year.

The last friendly match between South Africa and Zambia was in October 2020 at Royal Bafokeng Stadium, where Bafana lost 2-1 under then-coach Molefi Ntseki.

Lyle Foster, Teboho Mokoena and Ricardo Goss are the only players from that 2020 squad still involved in Hugo Broos’ current team.

Although some South Africans have criticised the choice of Zambia as an opponent—arguing that SAFA should have secured stronger opposition ahead of AFCON—Sibisi says the team remains focused on maintaining their rhythm and building consistency.

“It’s always nice playing against your neighbours,” Sibisi continued.

“But for us, it’s a matter of continuity. Building momentum is always difficult, so we are trying to keep it within the group.

“I think come Saturday, all of us will be ready.”