Limpopo Province is ready to host Bafana Bafana for the 2026 World Cup Qualifier
In a media briefing at the new Peter Mokaba Stadium on Monday, 10 February 2025, the Premier of Limpopo Dr. Phophi Ramathuba pronounced that the Limpopo Province will host a 2026 World Cup Qualifier soccer match between Bafana Bafana and Lesotho at Peter Mokaba Stadium on 21 March 2025.
She expressed confidence the province will be a world-class experience, drawing inspiration from the successful hosting of several matches during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
“The presence of our national team brings a significant economic boost to our province. Hotels, lodges, and guest houses will welcome visitors from Gauteng, Mpumalanga, North-West and beyond,” uttered Dr. Ramathuba.
Additionally, she mentioned that this match is not just another fixture on the football calender, but a momentous occasion for our city, our province, and our country as we rally behind our boys in their quest to secure a spot on football’s grandest stage.
Sharing the same sentiments, the Executive Mayor of Polokwane Municipality, Cllr. John Mpe said this initiative is a partnership between the Municipality and Provincial Government to collectively welcome the Bafana Bafana team into our province. He further expressed how this match among others, will boost small businesses, local economy, and the taxi industry.
The Chairman of the Black Leopards Football Club, Mr. Tshifiwa “Chief” Thidiela pledged his support and reiterated that his team and supporters will come to the stadium in numbers to rally behind Bafana Bafana. He urged the South African Football Association (SAFA) to suspend all games in the province so that soccer players and fans can come to the stadium to show support.
In conclusion, the Premier of Limpopo, Dr. Phophi Ramathuba said the province will spend R4.7 million, an amount that will cover the logistics of the game among other expenses. The Provincial Government will work together with Polokwane Municipality, Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and Limpopo Tourism Agency to host an event that will promote social cohesion and empower economic development. DM