Bafana Bafana are possibly two wins away from qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Hugo Broos’ men are five points clear in Group C ahead of Rwanda, Benin, Nigeria, Lesotho and Zimbabwe. With four matches remaining, South Africa might need to win just two to clinch qualification.
On Friday, Bafana will play Lesotho in the seventh round of the World Cup qualifiers, knowing a win could not just put them in a great position but also put pressure on the likes of Benin, Rwanda and Nigeria. The anticipated clash between South Africa and Likuena will be played at the Free State Stadium on Friday evening.
How Bafana can qualify for FIFA World Cup
Bafana Bafana are currently on 13 points and will need 21 points to qualify, regardless of other results. Two wins and two draws will guarantee them a place in next year’s World Cup. South Africa last qualified for the global piece in 2002 and in 2010, they only entered as hosts.
Can Bafana seal the World Cup spot on Tuesday?
For Bafana to qualify, they need to win their matches against Lesotho and Nigeria (Tuesday) and hope Rwanda and the Super Eagles play to a draw.
This however could change if FIFA decides to dock points from Bafana over the Teboho Mokoena saga. The South African midfielder was supposed to serve his suspension against Lesotho earlier this year but played during that game as Broos’ men won 2-0 at home.
If three points were taken from Bafana, then the scenario changes and they will need to ultimately win their remaining four matches to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
Will Bafana win their next match?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.