Bafana Bafana are desperately close to sealing their first non-automatic qualification for the FIFA World Cup since 2002 in Korea and Japan.
This evening, victory over Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium could determine whether South Africa books flights to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Coach Broos has made a few changes that include Nkosinathi Sibisi replacing the suspended Siyabonga Ngezana, Khuliso Mudau in for Zuko Mdutywela, and Sphephelo Sithole for Thalente Mbatha.
FIFA WORLD CUP 2026 QUALIFIER: ZIMBABWE VS BAFANA BAFANA
Starting lineups..
South Africa: Williams (c), Mbokazi, Sibisi, Modiba, Mudau, Mokoena, Sithole, Mbule, Nkota, Apollis, Foster.
Zimbabwe: Arubi, Zemura, Garananga, Lunga, Hadebe, Billiat, Nakamba, Chirewa, Munetsi, Musona, Takwara.
Bafana Bafana coach Broos offered a blunt preview. “I think this game is one of the most important in the last 24 or 25 years,” he told journalists. “By victory, we have a chance to qualify. By defeat, I think we can stop dreaming,” the Belgian admitted.
Tonight’s game, kicking off at 18:00, is essentially the second leg. Back in June, Bafana Bafana were the home team as they beat Zimbabwe 3–1 at the Free State Stadium. Thapelo Morena’s brace cancelled out Tawanda Chirewa’s opener before Iqraam Rayners wrapped it up with a cool finish.
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