All Eyes On Mbombela As Bafana Prepare For Pivotal Qualifier

Hugo Broos and members of his technical team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier match between Zimbabwe and Bafana Bafana

Bafana Bafana will be looking to bounce back when they face Rwanda in Mbombela on Tuesday, following a frustrating 0-0 draw against Zimbabwe in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday night.

Despite dominating the encounter and creating several clear-cut chances – including two efforts that struck the woodwork and another cleared off the line – Hugo Broos’ men were left to rue their missed opportunities.

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The result kept South Africa second in Group C, two points behind leaders Benin, who face Nigeria in their final group fixture.

Reflecting on the stalemate, Broos admitted it was a tough result to take but stressed the importance of regrouping quickly and maintaining belief heading into Tuesday’s decisive clash.

“It will be very important to see what happens in the game between Nigeria and Benin,” Broos said. “We will see what the result will be there. But on the other side, we don’t really have to look. If we win the game (against Rwanda) we will then see what happens. And that is the most important thing. It will not be easy, certainly not. But as long as it’s possible, you have to believe,” said Broos, as quoted on SAFA’s official website. 

The Bafana coach acknowledged the disappointment in the camp following the goalless draw but said he is confident his players will be ready to respond.

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“I think we will be a little bit down for one or two days. But I will do everything to once again have a team that believes on Tuesday, one that will try to win the game with as many goals as possible because (the group) may be decided on goal difference,” the coach added. 

Both sides ended Friday’s match with 10 men after Zimbabwe’s Knowledge Musona was sent off in the second half, followed by Bafana defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s dismissal late in the game. 

Photo by Gerhard Duraan/BackpagePix  

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