South Africa’s World Cup qualification hopes suffered a major blow after a goalless draw with Zimbabwe left them dependent on Nigeria’s result against Benin and a pending FIFA appeal.
South Africa’s hopes of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup are hanging by a thread following their goalless draw against Zimbabwe at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday evening.
Hugo Broos’ side produced one of their poorest performances in recent years, struggling to break down a 10-man Zimbabwean side that controlled large parts of the midfield battle. Despite pushing forward in the second half, Bafana failed to convert their chances, while the Warriors threatened on the counterattack and could have snatched victory.
Coming into the match level on points with Benin, South Africa needed a win to top Group C. However, Benin’s late winner against Rwanda saw them move two points clear, leaving Broos’ men in a difficult position.
For Bafana to qualify, they must beat Rwanda on Tuesday and hope Nigeria defeat Benin. A draw between the Super Eagles and the Cheetahs would only help South Africa if they beat Rwanda by at least two goals. Anything less will see them miss another World Cup.
There is, however, a slim chance of reprieve. FIFA recently docked Bafana points over the Teboho Mokoena case, but the South African Football Association (SAFA) has lodged an appeal. If the appeal succeeds and South Africa beat Rwanda, they could still qualify.
Broos remains hopeful but realistic, saying qualification is now out of their hands: “We can only do our part and hope things go our way.”