Bafana Bafana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes suffered a setback at Moses Mabhida Stadium, where 10-man Zimbabwe held Mzansi to a 0–0 draw.
Hugo Broos’ side couldn’t find the breakthrough despite strong dominance and chance creation, leaving fans frustrated.
HUGO BROOS REACTS TO BAFANA BAFANA LETDOWN
Broos admitted that South Africa tried everything during the match but were let down by luck. He noted that one save on the line and a shot that hit the post proved how fine the margins were, and that his side simply didn’t have luck on their side that day.
“Yeah, this is not good, also that we don’t have the result in our favour either but what can I say?” Broos said on SABC Sport. “I can’t blame my team, I can’t be angry, I’m just very disappointed that we couldn’t score the goal that we needed.
Broos explained that despite the dominance, Mzansi faced a motivated Zimbabwe side that defended tightly and made dangerous transitions. The coach emphasised that while the path is still open, it will not be easy.
“The key now is to stay calm, keep working, and play like we did today, creating chances and staying composed,” Broos said. “We must give everything in the Rwanda game and see what happens.”
WHAT’S NEXT?
The 0–0 draw leaves South Africa second in the group with 15 points, two behind Benin, who extended their lead with a 1–0 win over Rwanda in Kigali. With only one match remaining, Bafana Bafana’s fate rests on a win and Benin losing to Nigeria.