South Africa full-back Khuliso Mudau played a central role in both goals as his team drew 1-1 with Panama.
A casual pass from Mudau in the 23rd minute in Durban allowed Panama’s Yoel Barcenas to fire a low, precise shot past Ronwen Williams.
Mudau atoned three minutes into the second half by heading a Tshepang Moremi cross to Oswin Appollis, who slotted South Africa’s equaliser.
South Africa dominated possession and created multiple chances, but Panama threatened repeatedly, nearly snatching a late winner in the final stages.
A lapse in South African defence allowed Jose Fajardo to break free, with a series of passes ending in Cesar Yanis hitting the post.
Belgium-born coach Hugo Broos expressed frustration at the goal conceded, criticising Mudau’s decision under pressure and the team’s overall carelessness defensively.
“There is nothing preventing a clearance under pressure — that is what he should have done,” Broos told reporters after the match.
Broos added that despite creating eight or nine chances, South Africa’s inability to convert more than once remained a key concern.
Panama coach Thomas Christiansen said the long journey and jet lag contributed to his team tiring in the closing stages of the match.
“It was a physical game, and South Africa showed excellent technical skill. We hope to improve in our next encounter on Tuesday,” he said.
Christiansen also expressed uncertainty over injuries that forced goalkeeper Luis Mejia off and saw captain Eric Davis replaced at half-time.
In the 2026 World Cup, South Africa are drawn in Group A with co-hosts Mexico, South Korea, and either the Czech Republic or Denmark.
Panama join England, Croatia, and Ghana in Group L, aiming to build momentum after their competitive warm-up draw in Durban.