Bafana Bafana on brink of world cup return

Bafana Bafana put themselves in control of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification destiny after a 2-0 win against Benin in Ivory Coast yesterday.

Now, despite a potential points deduction for fielding the ineligible Teboho Mokoena, Bafana remain firmly on course for their first world cup since 2010.

Bafana are currently five points clear at the top of Group C with 13 points. Rwanda and Benin are tied in second and third place on eight points, while Nigeria follows closely behind with seven.

Lesotho sits fifth with six points but could move up to second if FIFA rules against South Africa, deducting the three points they earned in the previous round for fielding the suspended Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teboho Mokoena. Even in that scenario, Bafana would still hold onto first place, albeit with a reduced margin of just one point.

There were several key takeaways from Bafana’s comfortable win over Benin. Lyle Foster ended his international goal drought, scoring his first goal for South Africa since November 2024. The 24 year old looked sharp and clinical, displaying great positioning and composure to open the scoring. Jayden Adams continued his bright start in international football, netting his second goal in as many appearances following his goal on debut against Lesotho.

South Africa’s defense remains as solid as ever. Khuliso Mudau once again proved to be a reliable presence at right-back, while Stellenbosch FC’s Fawaaz Basadien has seamlessly adjusted to the demands of international football. Central defenders Nkosinathi Sibisi and Siyabonga Ngezana provided leadership and excellent game-reading skills, limiting Benin’s attacking opportunities.

Mamelodi Sundowns and South Africa’s No.1 goalkeeper Ronwen Williams maintained his usual high standards and delivered when called upon. Even in Mokoena’s absence, Bafana’s midfield operated efficiently, proving that there is depth in the squad capable of stepping up when required.

Nigeria, viewed as the biggest threat to Bafana Bafana’s qualification hopes, failed to capitalise on their attacking firepower. Despite boasting talents such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, and Calvin Bassey, the Super Eagles faltered with a 1-1 draw against bottom-placed Zimbabwe, missing a crucial opportunity to apply pressure on South Africa.

Bafana Bafana return to world cup qualifying action in September, when they will hope to officially secure their place at the tournament. They first travel to Lesotho on September 1, where a win would keep them in a strong position regardless of the potential point deduction. A crucial home fixture against Nigeria follows on September 8, where securing three points could all but seal their long-awaited return to the world’s biggest football stage.

Bafana Bafana have taken charge of their world cup destiny, proving they have the talent, determination and resilience to make history. Despite the uncertainty surrounding a potential points deduction, their commanding performances have set them apart as the best in Group C. With only a few hurdles left to clear, South Africa’s long-awaited return to football’s biggest stage isn’t just likely – it’s inevitable.

The post Bafana Bafana on brink of World Cup return appeared first on SoccerMag.

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