South Africa's 2026 World Cup qualification hopes suffered a major blow after a goalless draw against Zimbabwe at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. Bafana Bafana, who had been tipped as favourites to top Group C, were left frustrated by a resolute Zimbabwe side and an inspired performance from goalkeeper Washington Arubi.
The result leaves South Africa in second place with one game remaining, after a three-point deduction by FIFA for fielding a suspended player in March complicated their campaign. Hugo Broos' side needed victories against Zimbabwe and Rwanda to maintain pressure, but with other results not going their way, their path to qualification now looks precarious.
South Africa dominated proceedings but failed to convert chances. Sipho Mbule tested Arubi from range on several occasions, while Mohau Nkota and Lyle Foster both hit the woodwork. Foster struck the post in the 83rd minute, summing up a night of frustration for the hosts.
The match descended into chaos late on, with Zimbabwe's Knowledge Musona sent off for two yellow cards before South Africa's Mbekezeli Mbokazi was dismissed in second-half stoppage time for losing his temper. Oswin Appollis showed early promise on the left but faded as the game wore on, mirroring South Africa's dwindling qualification hopes.
With Nigeria and Benin picking up wins elsewhere, South Africa's World Cup dream teeters on the brink. Some players were reduced to tears at the final whistle, knowing their fate is no longer in their own hands.
