Bafana Bafana will host Rwanda in a must-win World Cup qualifier on Tuesday at the Mbombela Stadium.
Having led Group C for most of the qualifying campaign, South Africa were docked points by FIFA after fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho earlier this year. After FIFA made a ruling, Bafana’s 3-0 win over Lesotho was overturned, which then saw them go level on points with Benin before the last round of qualifiers.
A goalless draw with Zimbabwe on Friday means Bafana must win their final qualifier against Rwanda and hope Benin draws or loses to Nigeria.
Hugo Broos’ men have shown fight and determination for the past two years and with just one more round to go, they need to display the fighting spirit if they are to return to next year’s global showpiece.
When are Bafana hosting Rwanda?
Bafana play Rwanda at the Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday (14 October). Kick-off is set for 18:00 and the match will be televised on SABC and SuperSport channels.
For Bafana, their task is simple: win by two or three clear goals and wait for the results between the Nigeria and Benin match. If Nigeria doesn’t lose to Benin and Bafana score two or more clear goals, Hugo Broos‘ men will qualify for the World Cup.
Having failed to bear Zimbabwe in Durban, some Bafana fans fear an element of doubt might creep in when they play Rwanda. It is the Wasps who handed South Africa their only defeat this World Cup qualifier campaign.
Nigeria, South Africa and Benin all have a chance to qualify for next year’s tournament. The Super Eagles will qualify if they beat Benin and Bafana fail to beat Rwanda.
For the Leopards, their task is simple: a win away to Nigeria will see them qualify for their first ever World Cup but a draw might be enough as well.
For Bafana, they need a big win and hope Benin fails to beat Nigeria.