A win is non-negotiable following their goalless draw against Zimbabwe in Durban, while on the flip side, Nigeria must beat Benin. 

Victories for both South Africa and their West African rivals would see Bafana qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 24 years.

While the result in Uyo will have a major impact on South Africa’s hopes, all the matches will kick-off at the same time – meaning Bafana can only focus on what’s within their control.

Ricardo Goss. Photo: Morgan Piek

The Bafana Bafana and Siwelele FC goalkeeper, Ricardo Goss, said the team is ready to set the record straight after the setback at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday.

“We’re ready for Tuesday against Rwanda. Obviously, we’re a bit disappointed with the result on Friday, but I think the performance was brilliant. 

“We gave it our all, and if we put in the same performance on Tuesday, we should get all the points.”

He said coach Hugo Broos reminded the players they can only control their own performance, and that is all that will matter when they are between the four lines.

“The coach said in one of his interviews that it’s out of our hands now – we just have to control what we can. Every player in the national team knows about pressure. 

“Even at club level, there’s always pressure to win. It’s nothing new to us. We’re geared up for it. Everyone knows that three points will probably be enough for us, depending on how the other results go. 

“Everyone still has a fair shot  even Nigeria. But we thrive under pressure. That’s what being a professional footballer is all about.”

The 31-year-old shot-stopper stressed the importance of moving on from the draw against Zimbabwe and believes the team has responded positively in training.

Hugo Broos. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We’ve put the Friday game behind us. You can see in training there’s a real buzz – everyone’s excited to get out there and collect all the points,” he said.

“With all due respect to Rwanda, it’s our home game. We remember what happened over there – it was a tough match and we lost, which I think is our only defeat so far. The boys are ready for this one. 

“We know what’s at stake, and we’re experienced enough to understand we just need to win our game and let the rest take care of itself.

“We’re ready for Tuesday and really looking forward to giving Rwanda a tough time at home.”

Tuesday night’s match at Mbombela Stadium kicks off at 18:00. At the same time, Nigeria take on Benin in Uyo, while Lesotho face Zimbabwe at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek  dg