Hugo Broos, the coach of Bafana Bafana, remains steadfast in his belief despite the team’s disappointing 0–0 draw against Zimbabwe during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C qualifier on Friday night at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
This outcome has hindered South Africa’s qualification efforts, costing them two vital points. As a result, Benin has widened their lead at the top of the group by two points, while Nigeria has made a comeback with a 2–1 victory over Lesotho in Polokwane.
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Supporters from South Africa now have to analyze the numbers again as the team’s chances for qualification hang by a thread.
Once in a comfortable lead, Bafana’s campaign took a considerable hit when FIFA docked three points following the use of ineligible midfielder Teboho Mokoeana in the match against Lesotho.
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Hugo Broos Acknowledges Increased Challenges
In spite of the difficulties, Broos stays hopeful and is dedicated to keeping the team’s ambitions alive.
“The situation is indeed tougher now than before. Although this game isn’t entirely lost, it can still be turned around,” commented Broos.
“The outcome of the match between Nigeria and Benin will be critical; we will assess the results. Nonetheless, we must concentrate on our own performance. Winning our game is our priority, and that will define our standing.”
The Belgian coach, who took charge of the national team in May 2021, urged his players to maintain focus as they prepare for their vital next match.
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“I expect we might be down for a day or two, but I’ll do everything I can to ensure that by Tuesday, our team believes in their capacity to win the game, ideally by as many goals as possible since goal difference could play a crucial role in determining who advances to America.”
Benin currently leads the group with a superior goal difference, while South Africa and Nigeria are separated by merely a point, making Tuesday’s matches pivotal for all three teams.
All Eyes on Final Matches as Pressure Increases
South Africa is poised to take on Rwanda on Tuesday, while Nigeria will face Benin in the final group match — a game that could secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
“It works to our advantage that Nigeria could top the group, necessitating them to beat Benin in their final match. Our chances depend on winning and the goals scored, alongside Nigeria’s performance,” Broos detailed.
“Benin represents the greatest threat. A victory for us means Nigeria cannot surpass us; however, failing to win would end our hopes. Even if Benin were to lose, we could still advance with a two-goal margin.”
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Marshall Munetsi, vice-captain of Zimbabwe, echoes the sentiment that the competition is far from decided.
“I have a teammate in Nigeria; as soon as he heard about South Africa’s points deduction, he made a point to talk to me during training. This is a thrilling period for African football,” Munetsi stated.
“Nonetheless, South Africa has been performing admirably. If you analyze their recent Afcon results, they’ve been making significant progress.”
The CAF qualifiers will conclude on Tuesday, determining the nine African nations that will take part in the inaugural 48-team FIFA World Cup.
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