SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao confirmed that negotiations with the players are ongoing, noting that the association is determined to avoid the disagreements that have overshadowed previous tournaments.
Monyepao expressed confidence that an agreement will be finalised before the national squad assembles for camp on 8 December at the University of Pretoria.
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She emphasised that early dialogue with the team’s leadership group has already begun, with the aim of ensuring uninterrupted preparations for the continental showpiece.
Bonus disputes remain a recurring issue across African football. In a recent example, Nigeria’s national team refused to train before a key 2026 World Cup play-off against Gabon due to outstanding payments, highlighting the potential impact such conflicts can have on performance and morale.
In addition to the internal negotiations, SAFA recently participated in a CAF workshop centred on compliance matters, part of wider efforts to ensure smooth operational and administrative readiness for the tournament.
“We had conversations with the leadership of the players during the recent camp in Sandton,” said Monyepao.
“Talks have begun, everyone has put their cards on the table and it is about getting approvals on what they have proposed and what we have proposed. We need to find each other, but before the camp starts in December we will be on the same page.
“We have started with preparations by doing what needs to be done. We know the team is going to be in camp from December 8 and the coach will announce the squad when the time is right.
“We were in the CAF workshop on Tuesday to understand what is expected of us as a federation. We had the opportunity to ask clarity-seeking questions so we have all the information we need and we are adequately prepared for the tournament.”