Hugo Broos Remains Hopeful After Bafana’s Disappointing Draw with Zimbabwe in World Cup Qualifier
Bafana Bafana’s coach, Hugo Broos, remains resolute in his optimism despite the team’s disappointing 0–0 draw against Zimbabwe during Friday night’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C qualifier held at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
This result has impeded South Africa’s chances for qualification, costing them two essential points. Consequently, Benin has broadened their lead at the top of the group by two points, while Nigeria has rejoined the competition with a 2–1 victory over Lesotho in Polokwane.
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For supporters in South Africa, it’s time to reevaluate the numbers as the dreams of qualification hang in the balance.
Once comfortably leading the group, Bafana’s campaign took a major hit when FIFA docked three points due to the participation of ineligible midfielder Teboho Mokoeana in the match against Lesotho.
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Hugo Broos Recognizes Heightened Challenges
In spite of the obstacles, Broos remains hopeful and dedicated to keeping the team’s ambitions alive.
“No, the situation is more challenging now than it was before. This match, even though it’s not entirely lost, can still be salvaged,” Broos stated.
“The results of the match between Nigeria and Benin will be pivotal; we’ll see how it unfolds. Nevertheless, we must concentrate on our game. If we secure a victory, we’ll assess our standings, as that remains our priority.”
The Belgian coach, who has breathed new life into the national team since his appointment in May 2021, encouraged his players to maintain their focus ahead of their crucial next match.
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“I believe we’ll be down for a day or two, but I will do everything in my power to ensure that by Tuesday, we have a team that is ready to win, ideally by as many goals as possible, as goal difference may ultimately determine who advances to America.”
Benin is currently atop the group with a superior goal difference, while South Africa and Nigeria are just a point apart, making Tuesday’s matches crucial for all three countries.
All Eyes on Final Matches as Pressure Builds
South Africa is scheduled to face Rwanda on Tuesday, while Nigeria and Benin will battle in the group’s final match — a game that could determine a place in the 2026 World Cup.
“It works in our favor that Nigeria possibly topping the group means they need to beat Benin in their last encounter, and it will rely on our victory and the number of goals scored, alongside Nigeria’s result,” Broos explained.
“Benin is the greatest threat. If we win, Nigeria cannot surpass us, but a failure to win means it’s all over. However, if Benin loses, we could still progress with a two-goal margin.”
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Zimbabwe’s vice-captain, Marshall Munetsi, believes the competition remains wide open.
“I have a teammate playing for Nigeria; as soon as he learned about South Africa’s points deduction, he was giving me a hard time during practice. So, this is an exhilarating time for African football,” Munetsi remarked.
“However, South Africa has been performing well. If you look at their recent Afcon results, they have made significant progress.”
The CAF qualifiers will wrap up on Tuesday, confirming the nine African nations set to compete in the inaugural 48-team FIFA World Cup.
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