Danny Jordaan Predicts Great Test for Pitso Mosimane’s Bafana Bafana in Cairo
The South African Football Association (SAFA) President, Dr. Danny Jordaan, has expressed his excitement and high expectations for the upcoming international friendly between Bafana Bafana and Egypt, scheduled for 4 October 2026 at the iconic Cairo International Stadium. The match will mark a significant moment in South African football, as newly appointed head coach Pitso Mosimane takes charge of the national team for the first time since his appointment on 2 September 2026.
“Matches against Egypt are always tough and we (South Africa) do not expect anything less in this latest installment,” Jordaan said via the SAFA website. His words underline the intensity of the rivalry between the two nations, which has produced memorable encounters over the years.
Jordaan also emphasised the psychological dimension of Mosimane’s return to the dugout, noting Egypt’s familiarity with the coach. “I think that coach Pitso’s return to Bafana Bafana will add another twist because they know him very well in the North African country,” he remarked, highlighting the unique dynamic Mosimane brings to this clash.
Before facing Egypt, Bafana Bafana will begin their AFCON 2027 qualifiers with a home clash against Guinea on 26 September 2026, followed by an away fixture against Eritrea on 30 September 2026. These matches will serve as Mosimane’s first real test since replacing Belgian coach Hugo Broos earlier this month.
“This will be another great test for both teams,” Jordaan added, pointing to the importance of the Egypt friendly as a benchmark for South Africa’s progress under Mosimane. The fixture is expected to draw significant attention across the continent, given the pedigree of both nations.
Jordaan, who is also preparing for the upcoming SAFA Elections, expressed hope that Mosimane’s tenure would begin on a positive note. A strong start in the qualifiers and a competitive showing against Egypt could provide momentum not only for the team but also for the broader vision of South African football.
The SAFA elective congress is scheduled for 12 September 2026, adding another layer of significance to this period. Jordaan’s leadership and vision for the future of South African football will be under scrutiny, making the performance of Bafana Bafana under Mosimane even more symbolic.
With Mosimane at the helm and Jordaan’s backing, the upcoming fixtures represent a new chapter for South African football. The Guinea and Eritrea qualifiers will set the tone, while the Egypt clash promises to be a spectacle that tests the team’s resilience and ambition. Jordaan’s words capture the anticipation: a tough battle, a psychological twist, and a great test for both sides.