The match at the Moses Mabhida Stadium produced no goals, although South Africa created several chances. Most efforts were off target, while Zimbabwe’s captain and Marumo Gallants goalkeeper, Washington Arubi, had another standout performance between the posts for the Warriors.

Both teams finished the game with ten men. Zimbabwe’s Knowledge Musona was sent off in the 62nd minute, while Bafana Bafana defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi received his marching orders on the stroke of full-time.

Khuliso Mudau. Photo: SAFA

To make matters worse for South Africa, Group C leaders Benin tightened their grip on top spot after collecting all three points with a win over Rwanda in Kigali.

Bafana are now two points behind Benin, meaning their only route to qualification is to beat Rwanda in Mbombela on Tuesday night, while hoping Nigeria defeat Benin in Uyo.

The Super Eagles moved up to third on the log on Friday with a 2-1 win over Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. They now have 14 points and can still qualify if they beat Benin. South Africa, currently on 15 points, must win in the Lowveld – it’s non-negotiable.

Coach Hugo Broos admitted the result in Durban was far from ideal but insisted his team would not give up on their dream of reaching next year’s World Cup finals in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

“It will be very important to see what happens in the game between Nigeria and Benin. But on the other hand, we can’t focus on them. 

“If we win our game against Rwanda, we’ll see what happens after that. That’s the most important thing. It won’t be easy, but as long as it’s possible, we have to believe.”

Sipho Mbule. Photo: SAFA

“I think we’ll be a little down for a day or two, but I’ll do everything to make sure the team believes again on Tuesday – to try to win the game and score as many goals as possible, because the group might come down to goal difference.”

Tuesday’s decisive clash between South Africa and Rwanda at the Mbombela Stadium kicks off at 18:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg