Already-eliminated Zimbabwe name their strongest squad as they look to dent Bafana Bafana's World Cup dream with English Premier League star, ex-Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates players making the cut

CAF's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers are set for conclusion in the second week of October, with a couple of teams hoping to grab their tickets.

South Africa, who were recently docked three points for fielding an ineligible Teboho Mokoena, a decision they have since appealed, hope to top Group C.

Bafana Bafana will play the Warriors on October 10 before hosting Rwanda, matches they have to win to keep alive their hope of competing with the best in the global competition next year.

Zimbabwe have absolutely no chance of qualifying for the World Cup, but they are determined to finish the campaign on a high.

In his preliminary squad, coach Michael Nees has included former Kaizer Chiefs stars Knowledge Musona and Khama Billiat, alongside ex-Orlando Pirates duo Terrence Dzukamanja and Marshall Munetsi, who is playing for English top-tier side Wolverhampton Wanderers. 

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Divine Lunga is also in the squad.   

Have a look at the players called up for the games against Bafana Bafana and Lesotho, respectively.  

As South Africans anxiously wait to see whether the appeal succeeds or not, coach Hugo Broos and his arsenal are aware they have no option but to win the remaining games with a bigger margin.  

Bafana Bafana have not played at the World Cup since 2010, when they hosted it.