Soccer
Do-or-die clash awaits Bafana Bafana in Mbombela─── MORGAN PIEK 08:13 Mon, 13 Oct 2025
It’s do-or-die for Bafana Bafana Tuesday night when they face Rwanda in Mbombela in their final match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
After being held to a goalless draw by Zimbabwe in Durban on Friday, anything less than a win will not be good enough for South Africa. To make matters worse, Group C leaders Benin opened up a two-point gap after beating Rwanda 1-0 in Kigali.
South Africa now find themselves in a position where they’ll have to rely on arch-rivals Nigeria to do them a favour by beating Benin in Uyo. The Super Eagles managed a 2-1 win over Lesotho in Polokwane on Friday, moving them up to third and keeping their own qualification hopes alive.
While that adds pressure on South Africa, it could also work in their favour – the Nigerians will be highly motivated to get the job done.
Bafana Bafana supporters. Photo: Morgan Piek
What’s most important, however, is Bafana Bafana must claim all three points in the Lowveld. Bafana and Burnley striker Lyle Foster said it’s vital not to panic, adding the mood in the camp remains positive.
“Obviously, it wasn’t the result we wanted – we believed it would go differently. It wasn’t to be, but that’s football sometimes.”
“I think we played really well, and the mood in the camp is still very good. We know it’s far from over. Tuesday’s a big game, and if we get the result, a lot of things can still go our way. The past is the past – it’s done and dusted – now we just move forward.”
Foster admitted the result in Durban was disappointing, both for the players and for fans across the country, but insisted there’s still everything to play for.
“There’s no reason to feel despondent. If there’s still something to play for, then there’s still a chance. There’s no point in giving up now – we’re still in it, so there’s no reason to lose hope.”
Lyle Foster scored one of South Africa’s three goals against Lesotho in Bloemfontein. Photo: Morgan Piek
The striker also made a plea to supporters to keep coming out in numbers and be that “extra player” on the pitch.
“The support has been amazing lately, and we can only ask for more of the same – the way it was in Durban and in previous camps.
“This is probably the most important one, so we’re asking the fans to come out in full force. We’ll make sure to give our all and deliver a result.”
Tuesday’s decisive clash between Bafana Bafana and Rwanda kicks off at 18:00 at the Mbombela Stadium.
