Despite a goalless stalemate against Zimbabwe on Friday, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos remains hopeful about his squad’s prospects of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to Soccernet.ng.
The draw in Johannesburg saw Bafana Bafana drop to second place in Group C, accumulating 15 points-two points shy of group leaders Benin Republic, who edged Rwanda 1-0. Meanwhile, Nigeria kept their qualification hopes alive with a 2-1 win over Lesotho in Polokwane.
After the match, Broos acknowledged the complexity of the qualification scenario as the final round of fixtures approaches but emphasized the importance of his team concentrating on their own performance.
Hugo Broos Reflects on the Zimbabwe Match
“Our focus must remain on playing with the same determination as today and aiming for victory,” Broos stated. “Then we’ll see how things unfold-perhaps Benin might lose to Nigeria, or goal difference could come into play. I don’t have a clear picture right now. Our priority is to beat Rwanda and then assess the situation.”
Watch Hugo Broos’ Reaction to Nigeria vs Benin:
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Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos expresses disappointment following their 0⃣➖0⃣ draw with Zimbabwe.
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The Belgian manager conceded that the stalemate against Zimbabwe was a setback but highlighted that South Africa’s destiny remains in their hands if they can secure a win against Rwanda in their final group match.
A victory over Rwanda would potentially guarantee Bafana Bafana a spot in the 2026 World Cup, contingent on Benin suffering a defeat to Nigeria in Uyo.
Nonetheless, any misstep by South Africa could open the door for either Benin or Nigeria to capitalize, setting the stage for an exhilarating conclusion to Group C’s qualification battle.