BENIN: DE UITDAGINGEN

BAFANA Bafana’s aspirations to qualify for the 2026 World Cup took a significant hit as they were held to a 0-0 stalemate by 10-man Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday.

In a match that tested both patience and precision, Hugo Broos’ team held the majority of possession but failed to translate their dominance into goals, as the Warriors defended resolutely to frustrate the home side.

The outcome leaves Bafana in second place in Group C with 15 points—two points behind leaders Benin, who triumphed over Rwanda.

Broos made two alterations to his starting XI, bringing back Khuliso Mudau and Siphephelo Sithole, while retaining the attacking trio that began the previous qualifier against Nigeria in a bid for consistency.

The hosts nearly got off to a flyer when Oswin Appollis delivered a tempting low cross in the first minute, but Lyle Foster was just a fraction late in getting the finishing touch.

Sipho Mbule once again emerged as Bafana’s creative engine, controlling the game and finding spaces between the lines.

The breakthrough almost came just before halftime—Mohau Nkota’s powerful drive struck the woodwork before Nkosinathi Sibisi headed over from a close distance.

Broos made a double substitution after the interval, introducing Bathusi Aubaas and Thapelo Morena to inject energy and balance. This adjustment freed Mbule to advance further upfield, allowing him to deliver a perfectly weighted pass to Foster.

The Burnley striker rounded goalkeeper Washington Arubi, but a moment’s hesitation allowed a defender to recover and block his shot on the goal line.

Shortly afterward, Zimbabwe was reduced to 10 men when forward Knowledge Musona received a second yellow card for a reckless foul on Appollis. This dismissal set the stage for a tense finale, with Bafana pushing forward in search of a winner.

Nevertheless, Zimbabwe stood firm against the onslaught.