Bafana Aim to Reclaim World Cup Qualifiers Lead After Setback
Bafana Bafana are eager to reclaim their lead in Group C of the CAF FIFA World Cup qualifiers as they face Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium. This crucial match is set for Friday, October 10, 2025, at 6:00 PM CAT (4:00 PM GMT).
Current Standings and Context
Previously, Bafana Bafana topped the group with 17 points. However, a deduction of three points for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in a match against Lesotho has left them tied with Benin at 14 points. The South African team now trails Benin on goal difference.
Raymond Hack, a CAS arbitrator and former CEO of the South African Football Association (SAFA), stated that an appeal regarding Bafana’s forfeited win over Lesotho is unlikely to succeed.
Match Significance
This upcoming match against Zimbabwe is crucial for Bafana Bafana as they aim to reclaim the top position in their group. The winner of the group will secure an automatic spot at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Additionally, the four best runners-up across the nine CAF groups will enter a knockout tournament to compete for a place at the inter-continental playoffs.
Squad Updates
Bafana Bafana will miss notable players for this match. Kamogelo Sebelebele and veteran striker Bradley Grobler, who is currently in good form, have not been included in the squad. Sipho Mbule has been selected, possibly due to his versatility in midfield positions. Khuliso Mudau is expected to start at right-back after resolving a dispute with Mamelodi Sundowns.
New additions to the squad include Sphephelo ‘Yaya’ Sithole, who returns from injury, and Mduduzi Shabalala, who replaces the injured Relebohile Mofokeng. Iqraam Rayners also misses out due to health issues, with Evidence Makgopa stepping in.
Expected Lineups
| South Africa | Zimbabwe |
|---|---|
| GK Ronwen Williams | GK Washington Arubi |
| LB Aubrey Modiba | LB Jordan Zemura |
| CB Siyabonga Ngezana | CB Gerald Takwara |
| CB Mbekezeli Mbokazi | CB Munashe Garananga |
| RB Khuliso Mudau | RB Emmanuel Jalai |
| CM Sphephelo ‘Yaya’ Sithole | CM Knowledge Musona |
| CM Teboho Mokoena | CM Marvelous Nakamba |
| LW Oswin Appollis | CM Marshall Munetsi |
| AM Sipho Mbule | LW Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya |
| RW Mohau Nkota | ST Tawanda Chirewa |
| ST Lyle Foster | RW Tawanda Maswanhise |
Head-to-Head Statistics
- Last match victory: Zimbabwe over Bafana was in a friendly back in 2013.
- Since then, South Africa has recorded three wins and one draw against Zimbabwe.
The match promises to be an exciting encounter as Bafana Bafana aim to take control of their World Cup qualifying group once again.
