2026 WCQ: Hugo Broos admits Super Eagles could be Bafana Bafana's saviours or spoilers

Bafana Bafana's chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup took a major blow after being held to a goalless draw by bottom-placed Zimbabwe on Friday evening.

Despite playing with ten men for more than thirty minutes, the Warriors' defence stood firm, frustrating South Africa's attempts to find a breakthrough.

The result leaves Group C finely balanced heading into the final round of matches next Tuesday. 

Benin currently lead the standings with 17 points following a narrow 1-0 win over Rwanda, while South Africa sit second on 15 points and Nigeria trail closely behind with 14.

With qualification no longer in their hands, Bafana Bafana face another must-win encounter against Rwanda on October 14.

They will also be hoping for a favour from Nigeria, who take on Benin in a decisive clash that could determine the group's outcome.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, South Africa coach Hugo Broos admitted that the draw with Zimbabwe had complicated South Africa's path to the World Cup. 

He acknowledged that Nigeria's result against Benin could prove decisive and explained that his team must now not only win their final fixture but also pay attention to goal difference.

Broos identified Benin as the biggest threat in the group, noting that failure to secure a victory against Rwanda would end their qualification hopes. 

He maintained that if Benin were to lose and South Africa won by at least two goals, there would still be a realistic chance of progressing.

The Belgian tactician stressed the importance of belief within the squad, admitting that it would be extremely disappointing if Nigeria managed to beat Benin while South Africa failed to win their own game, thereby missing out on a ticket to the World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States. 

He added that even a win might not be enough if results elsewhere do not go their way, emphasising that South Africa must first take care of business against Rwanda before hoping for a favourable outcome from Nigeria's clash with Benin.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit: safa.net

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com