The match was supposed to be a send-off for the squad going to the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand before they continue their preparations outside the country. But a dispute with the South Africa Football Association (SAFA) over bonus payments and their contracts for the tournament meant the World Cup-bound squad did not play. I will be meeting with the South Africa Football Players' Union on Tuesday to hear the serious concerns expressed by the team," Kodwa said. South Africa are due to meet Costa Rica in a final warm-up game in Christchurch on July 15. They have been drawn alongside Sweden, Italy and Argentina in Group G at the World Cup, which kicks off on July 20.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 03, 2023 06:30 UTC