SAFA Confirms Orlando Amstel Arena for Bafana Bafana’s AFCON Qualifier Against Kenya

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has confirmed Orlando Amstel Arena in Johannesburg as the venue for Bafana Bafana’s first meeting against Kenya in the upcoming back-to-back qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

South Africa will host the Harambee Stars on Friday, 13 November 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 6pm. The two nations will then travel to Nairobi for the return fixture on Tuesday, 17 November, as they battle for crucial points in their quest to qualify for the continental tournament.

The opening encounter is expected to attract significant attention, particularly because Kenya are coached by former Bafana Bafana striker Benni McCarthy. The match will mark a notable occasion for McCarthy as he returns to South Africa to face his home country in his role as head coach of the East African national team.

McCarthy enjoyed a distinguished career as a footballer before transitioning into coaching. His familiarity with South African football could add an interesting dimension to the contest, although his priority will be to guide Kenya towards a positive result.

The encounter is also expected to feature an intriguing tactical battle against Pitso Mosimane, who is reportedly leading Bafana Bafana in his latest spell as head coach.

South Africa will enter the November fixtures looking to maintain their impressive start to the AFCON qualifying campaign. Bafana Bafana currently sit at the top of Group D after winning both of their qualifying matches in September.

Securing maximum points at home would strengthen their position and provide momentum ahead of the challenging return fixture in Nairobi. However, Kenya will be determined to frustrate the hosts and collect valuable points before playing in front of their own supporters.

With only four days separating the two matches, squad management, tactical adjustments and player fitness could prove decisive.

For South African supporters, the Johannesburg fixture offers an opportunity to back Bafana Bafana as they continue their pursuit of qualification for the 2027 AFCON tournament. The two encounters could significantly influence the Group D standings as the qualification race gathers momentum.

Source;

https://x.com/MDNnewss/status/2111160227571585132