The South African Football Association has confirmed the venue for Bafana Bafana’s upcoming home match against Kenya in the back-to-back qualifying fixtures for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. South Africa will host Kenya on Friday, November 13, 2026, before traveling to Nairobi for the return encounter four days later on Tuesday, November 17. The home leg is set to kick off at 6:00 p.m. at the Orlando Amstel Arena in Johannesburg.

This qualification fixture carries significant narrative weight due to the presence of former Bafana Bafana striker Benni McCarthy on the visiting bench. McCarthy, who enjoyed a celebrated playing career for South Africa before transitioning into football management, will be facing his native country for the first time since taking charge of the Kenyan national team. His return to Johannesburg as head coach of the Harambee Stars adds an extra layer of interest to a crucial competitive match.

The match also presents an intriguing tactical showdown between McCarthy and Pitso Mosimane, who leads the South African national side. Bafana Bafana enter the fixture in a strong position, currently occupying top spot in Group D after securing consecutive victories in their opening qualifying matches in September. Maintaining that winning record on home soil is vital for Mosimane’s squad as they aim to solidify their lead in the group before navigating the away leg in East Africa.

Kenya, meanwhile, will look to secure a positive result in Johannesburg to stay within contention for continental qualification. With both matches taking place within a short four-day window, squad depth and player fitness will play major roles in determining the outcome of the two-legged tie. For South African football followers, the fixture provides a chance to watch the national team build momentum toward the 2027 tournament while welcoming back one of the country's most iconic football figures in a new role.

source:

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