Head coach Hugo Broos has explained why Namibia and DR Congo are the perfect opponents in preparation for next year's Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).
South Africa will welcome first opponents Namibia at Orlando Stadium on Saturday before taking on DR Congo on Tuesday at the same venue.
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The two matches are part of Bafana's preparations for the continental showpiece to be held in Cote d'Ivoire next year.
"That was also a goal when you choose your opponent," Broos said the the pre-match press conference.
"First of all you need to find opponents who are free because we still have the qualifiers for Afcon.
"Secondly, what I said already... I wanted to play against stronger teams and with all due respect, because there was also a little commotion when I said I didn't want to play against Zimbabwe and Lesotho, It has nothing to do with their quality, but you need to play against stronger teams to become stronger.
"So when you see those teams (Namibia and DR Congo) to become stronger, when you see these two teams, different styles – that is also something [important] because you play still in the Afcon against teams that a different style. So,it has to be an experience for us also.
"Therefore again, I am a little bit unhappy that we have so many injuries at the moment, but okay, the games are there and I am looking forward to seeing the new players show their skill at Bafana Bafana, and how we react when we ply against two teams with a different style."
Kick-off is at 15:00.
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