Bafana Bafana played a goalless draw against Zimbabwe in a FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match against Zimbabwe on Friday night Moses Mabhida Stadium. Picture Credit: X
By Aisha Zardad
Durban: In a tightly contested 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, Bafana Bafana faced a disappointing goalless draw against Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday night.
Coach Hugo Broos and his squad left no stone unturned in their quest for victory, pouring relentless pressure on the Zimbabwean defense. Despite their efforts, Lady Luck was not on their side. A shot destined for the net was heroically cleared off the line, while two additional attempts struck the goalposts, denying Bafana Bafana a crucial win.
Though frustrated by the outcome, Broos remained optimistic, urging his team to bounce back as there are still significant opportunities ahead in qualifying Group C. “We are currently second on the table, trailing Benin by just two points,” Broos noted. The team is set to host Rwanda in the final group match at Mbombela on Tuesday, where a win is essential.
“The game against Rwanda is pivotal for us,” Broos stated. “We must secure the three points and hope Nigeria can do us a favor against Benin at home.” He emphasized that the team’s focus needs to be solely on their own performance. “If we win against Rwanda, we will see what happens in the other game—this is our priority.”
Despite the disappointment from the draw, the coach acknowledged the importance of maintaining belief within the squad. “It won’t be easy, but as long as there’s a chance, we have to continue believing,” he affirmed.
In a match that saw both teams finish with ten players, Zimbabwe’s Knowledge Musona received his marching orders in the 62nd minute, followed closely by Bafana Bafana’s Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who was sent off just before the final whistle.
Bafana Bafana will make their way to Mbombela on Saturday, gearing up for their decisive encounter against Rwanda.
In light of Bafana Bafana’s recent goalless draw against Zimbabwe, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie expressed his thoughts on social media. He stated, “Truth be told, that was not our best performance for such a crucial game, we have absolutely no choice but to fight harder against Rwanda. I still have hope in BafanaBafana, let’s rally behind our Boyz on Tuesday, we don’t give up we rise to the occasion. We shall qualify.”
