BackpageElvis Chipezeze warns Bafana Bafana that Zimbabwe 'are not taking this game lightly' as the Warriors threaten to shatter South Africa's 2026 FIFA World Cup hopes
BackpageBafana target toppling Benin, but Zim stand in the way
Bafana Bafana and Zimbabwe clash in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday.
Stung by FIFA deducting three points from them, Bafana are now second in Group C, eager to topple Benin who now occupy top spot.
Hugo Broos' side face bottom-placed Zimbabwe who are using this match to prepare for December's 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals.
BackpageChipezeze fires warning shots
“It's an opportunity for us because remember ... we are also preparing for the Afcon and we are not taking this game lightly, like every qualifier that we've played,” Chipezeze said as per Sowetan Live.
“We went out there and we tried to compete at the highest level; therefore, these two games that are coming up are also a chance for us to prepare well, so when we go to that tournament, we know where we are as a nation.
“So, it is a good opportunity for us, starting with Bafana Bafana and Lesotho, so it's preparations for us.”
BackpageNothing to lose for Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe could turn out to be party spoilers at Moses Mabhida and dent Bafana's chances of going to the World Cup.
The Warriors will not be affected even if they lose to Bafana as they are already out of contention to qualify for USA/Mexico and Canada so will be able to play with freedom.
But they might take joy from upsetting their neighbours, given the two teams' rivalry.
However, in the last three competitive outings staged in South Africa, Bafana have reigned supreme with three wins and an aggregate score of 6-1.
BackpageWhat comes next?
If Bafana beat Zimbabwe and Benin drop points away in Rwanda on the same day, South Africa will reclaim top spot and will go into the final group C match against Amavubi with slightly less pressure.
But a draw or defeat to the Warriors and a win for the Cheetahs would complicate matters for Hugo Broos and his men.
One advantage Bafana hold is that their two nearest rivals for the World Cup berth, Nigeria and Benin must face each other in the final match of the group phase.
