South Africa enter a very important phase of their quest to qualify for the World Cup with another do-or-die match against Amavubi. On Friday, Hugo Broos' men were held to a goalless draw by the Warriors of Zimbabwe. On Tuesday, they play the Eastern African nation, knowing they can't afford another slip-up in their quest to compete with the best in the world.
South Africa have a daunting task in their pursuit for the 2026 World Cup ticket when they face their neigbours in the COSAFA derby. While the Warriors have no chance to dine with the big boys, their visitors are aware that anything apart from three points might cost them. It explains why the fans are anxious ahead of the Friday outing at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
The unfortunate deduction of three points by FIFA for fielding Teboho Mokoena when he was suspended dropped South Africa to second in Group C on goal difference. But qualification is still in reach if the team wins against Zimbabwe and Rwanda, and can score a few goals while doing it.
With the national team's bid to reach the quadrennial competition's finals in 2026 hanging in the balance after several recent setbacks, GOAL examines the reasons why South Africa has what it takes to win their remaining two matches to top Group C and qualify directly for the tournament in June next year.
South Africa enter a very important phase of their quest to qualify for the World Cup with two do-or-die matches against the Warriors and Rwanda. But for now, their focus is on their northern neighbours whom they face at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday. It is a match that the coach cannot afford to make mistakes in his selection of his lineup.
This fan urges South Africa not to rely on results elsewhere in Group C but to go 'for the kill' in their own games to ensure Mzansi can enjoy their first appearance at the global tournament since hosting in 2010.
In his characteristically blunt style the Belgian tactician pointed out the midfielder and defender were wrecking their AFCON and World Cup dreams by pursuing moves that led to them warming the bench instead of gaining valuable playing time.
The Belgian has responded to the administrator who had threatened a "thorough investigation into the incompetence that led to this sanction" after South Africa were deducted three points in their FIFA World Cup qualifying group.
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