Zimbabwe could derail Bafana Bafana’s World Cup hopes if underestimated

Zimbabwe knows Bafana Bafana like the back of their hand – and that’s why, if underestimated, they—not Rwanda—could derail South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying hopes.

A rivalry rooted in the southern part of the continent, Bafana and the Warriors are no strangers to each other. Beyond competing in regional tournaments, the two nations have clashed in continental and international fixtures over the years.

Of course, it goes without saying that Bafana have historically had the upper hand. In their last 10 meetings across all competitions, South Africa have won six, drawn two, and lost two.

So, as the two teams prepare to face off in the penultimate World Cup qualifier at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday night (6pm kick-off), it’s easy to see why punters are backing Bafana to secure a win.

But that’s only on paper. The game still has to be played on the pitch – and football, especially at the top level, is notoriously unpredictable. Which is why Bafana can’t afford any complacency heading into this clash in Durban.

The Warriors are, mathematically, out of contention for a spot at the global showpiece. They’re rooted to the bottom of Group C with four points – seven behind third-placed Nigeria – making even a third-place finish impossible.

Still, Zimbabwe are not to be underestimated – especially considering their familiarity with South African football, starting with their coach, Michael Nees. Notably, Nees served as Safa’s technical advisor from 2008 to 2009. While much has changed since then, he was part of Bafana’s setup – for better or worse.

And that’s not all. The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has long attracted Zimbabwean talent. Some of those players are still active in the league today, while others – largely in the twilight of their careers – once honed their craft on South African soil.

Take Washington Arubi, for example. The 40-year-old goalkeeper has been ageing like fine wine in the PSL top flight. His recent heroics include knocking out serial league champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout last-32 while playing for Marumo Gallants.

Arubi outshone not only Bafana’s captain but also Africa’s No. 1 in the penalty shootout. He saved two spot-kicks and scored the decisive goal as Gallants edged Sundowns 7–6 on penalties after 120 goalless minutes.

On the flip side, players like Knowledge Musona, Khama Billiat, and Marshall Munetsi rose to prominence in the PSL. Musona, Billiat, and Munetsi made their names at Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Orlando Pirates respectively.

Though the trio have since moved on – with Musona and Billiat now playing back home, and Munetsi at English Premier League side Wolves – they’ll need no extra motivation to reignite their rivalry with the South African squad, many of whom may be lifelong friends off the pitch.

The good news for Bafana is that coach Hugo Broos is under no illusions about the danger Zimbabwe pose.

“The game against Zimbabwe is always very difficult,” Broos admitted. “They are a team that’s always motivated to play against us. There are also good players within the team.

“Four years ago, we played against Zimbabwe, but if you look at the team today, it’s different. Most of their players are playing overseas now, so the quality is definitely there.”

Broos speaks from experience. Since being appointed Bafana coach in 2021, he has faced Zimbabwe three times – with two of those matches ending in draws, and one resulting in a win last year.

All three matches were World Cup qualifiers. But such were the early struggles in the recent qualifier in Bloemfontein - which Bafana eventually won 3-1 - Broos knows Zimbabwe can’t be taken lightly.

“We had a little problem at the start of the game last year,” he recalled. “I might not expect the same issues, but I do expect a well-motivated team on Friday. It’s up to us to achieve our targets and be there at the World Cup.

“There’s a possibility to qualify, but there are things we need to get right first. If we can manage that, then we have a real chance.”

With that said, Bafana can’t afford to faulter in their next two qualifiers – especially against regional rivals – if they are to reach the promised land.