South African football fans can look forward to an exciting international friendly match when Bafana Bafana takes on Tanzania on Friday, 6 June 2025. The match will kick off at 7:30 PM at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
This friendly comes at a crucial time for both teams, as they prepare for important upcoming tournaments. For Bafana Bafana, it’s a chance to test new talent and build a strong squad, especially with key players from Mamelodi Sundowns missing due to their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Match Details
- Date: Friday, 6 June 2025
- Time: 7:30 PM CAT
- Venue: Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane
- Ticket Prices: R60.00 for adults, R30.00 for children under 12
Initially, there was some confusion about where the match would be held, but it’s been confirmed that both of South Africa’s upcoming friendlies will be played in Polokwane. This is because Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria is unavailable due to a big rugby match between the Bulls and the Sharks.
Coach Hugo Broos Testing New Players
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has made it clear that these friendlies are about more than just winning. With several top players from Mamelodi Sundowns unavailable, he is using the opportunity to give new players a chance to shine.
Broos has selected 23 players and intends to give everyone some game time. He said, “I am not focused on the results in these friendly matches. I want to use them to learn more about the new players and test different combinations.”
This approach shows that the team is thinking long-term and building a strong squad for the future.
New Captain for Bafana Bafana
With many senior players absent, defender Fawaaz Basadien has been named the captain for both friendlies. Basadien, who plays for Stellenbosch FC, will have the responsibility of leading the team on and off the field.
Two players – Samukelo Kabini and Luke le Roux – were expected to arrive at the Bafana camp later than the rest, but they are expected to be available for selection against Tanzania.
Tanzania Preparing for Tough Challenges
Tanzania is not taking this match lightly. They are getting ready for the resumption of the World Cup qualifiers in September and also preparing for the Cecafa Senior Men’s Challenge Cup.
The Tanzanian team last played in March, where they won 3-0 against Congo at home but lost 0-2 away to Morocco. They will be hoping to put up a strong performance in Polokwane to boost their confidence ahead of their upcoming matches.
A History of Competitive Matches
South Africa and Tanzania have met three times before, and the matches have always been competitive:
- 2002: Tanzania beat South Africa on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
- 2011: South Africa won a friendly match 1-0.
- 2017: Tanzania won 1-0 in the COSAFA Cup.
Check also: Bafana Bafana’s Final 23-Man Squad Unveiled for June Friendlies
This history shows that the match on Friday could go either way, especially with both teams bringing in fresh faces and new energy. Fans attending the game can expect an entertaining evening of football. With affordable ticket prices and a chance to see the future stars of Bafana Bafana in action, it’s a great way to support the national team.
Whether you’re watching from the stands or at home, this friendly match is a must-watch for South African football lovers.
