Bafana Bafana’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Guinea could be played at one of two venues, with SAFA currently weighing its options.
South Africa are scheduled to begin their AFCON qualifying campaign at home against Guinea on 26 September, but the venue for the highly anticipated fixture has not yet been officially confirmed.
The match will also carry added significance as it is set to be Pitso Mosimane’s first game as Bafana Bafana head coach in 14 years.
Orlando or Rustenburg?
According to information available to The South African, the South African Football Association (SAFA) has identified two possible venues for the Guinea clash.
The game could either take place at Orlando Amstel Arena or Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace.
SAFA is reportedly still deliberating between the two options, with an official announcement expected once Mosimane finalises his squad for the upcoming international window.
The Orlando venue has become a familiar home for Bafana Bafana, having hosted several of the national team’s matches during Hugo Broos’ tenure.
Mosimane’s Bafana Return
The Guinea fixture is likely to attract significant attention given Mosimane’s return to the national team setup.
The experienced coach will be tasked with getting Bafana off to a strong start in a qualifying group that also includes Eritrea and Kenya.
South Africa’s opening qualifier against Guinea will be followed by an away fixture against Eritrea in Egypt on 30 September.
Bafana will then remain in Egypt for an international friendly against the Pharaohs at Cairo International Stadium on 4 October.
Bafana’s Full AFCON Qualifying Schedule
South Africa’s 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign currently consists of six fixtures:
- Bafana Bafana vs Guinea — 26 September
- Eritrea vs Bafana Bafana — 30 September
- Bafana Bafana vs Kenya — 11 November
- Kenya vs Bafana Bafana — 15 November
- Guinea vs Bafana Bafana — 24 March
- Bafana Bafana vs Eritrea — 28 March
With the opening match fast approaching, attention will now turn to Mosimane’s squad announcement — and the decision on whether his Bafana return will begin in Orlando or Rustenburg.
For now, both venues remain in contention, with SAFA expected to reveal its final choice soon.
