World Cup (Q): Bafana’s hopes dented by frustrating goalless draw

Bafana Bafana’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a significant blow after they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by 10-man Zimbabwe at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The result leaves the Bafana Bafana campaign precariously balanced ahead of the final qualification rounds.

The draw means Bafana Bafana remain second in Group C of the qualifiers, now sitting on 15 points, level with group leaders Benin, who currently hold a superior goal difference. South Africa’s position was made challenging prior to this fixture, as they were recently docked three points by FIFA (resulting in a 3-0 loss to Lesotho) for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena. This deduction had dropped them to 14 points, making the failure to secure a win against Zimbabwe even more damaging.

South Africa started the encounter lively, making two defensive changes with Khuliso Mudua and Aubrey Modiba returning to the starting line-up. Early chances fell to Sipho Mbule, who first fired over the bar (14 mins) and later forced a fine save from Zimbabwe goalkeeper Washington Arubi at the midway point of the half. Just before halftime, Mohau Nkota unleashed a powerful strike that agonizingly crashed against the upright, leaving the score goalless at the break.

Bafana Left with Questions After Goal Line Clearance and Red Card Drama

The second half brought heightened drama and South Africa’s best opportunities. In the 55th minute, Lyle Foster rounded the keeper but saw his shot sensationally cleared off the line.

The complexion of the game shifted in the 64th minute when Zimbabwe was reduced to 10 men after Knowledge Musona received a second yellow card. Despite the numerical advantage, the breakthrough proved elusive for Hugo Broos’ men. Foster was again denied by the woodwork in the 83rd minute as his side-footed finish cannoned off the post.

The match ended chaotically, with Zimbabwe forcing a late save from Ronwen Williams (90 mins), and South Africa’s Mbokazi being shown a red card in the 96th minute for a wild finish to a disappointing night.

2026 World Cup Qualifying: Updated Group C Table

1. Benin- 17 points (GD: +5)
2. South Africa- 15 points (GD: +3)
3. Nigeria- 14 points (GD: +3)
4. Rwanda- 11 points
5. Lesotho- 9 points
6. Zimbabwe- 5 points