Bafana Bafana's Strong Line-up to Face Zim and Rwanda. Image- Fadel Senna/Getty Images.
(The Post News)- Bafana Bafana have revealed a daring 23-man roster for their crucial matches with Rwanda and Zimbabwe, the last obstacles on the path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, balancing the aspirations of a country resting on their shoulders and a World Cup ambition dangling by a thin thread.
On October 10, 2025, South Africa will face Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. On October 14, 2025, they will play Rwanda, an essential match. Both games, which start at 6 p.m., are much more important than merely three points. These matches will determine Bafana’s World Cup journey.
FIFA punished South Africa three points for allowing Mokoena to play against Lesotho, and now they rank second in Group C with 14 points. Their chances of qualifying have been put in jeopardy by the punishment, putting their chances in line with Benin. Bafana needs to prevail in both games in order to earn a spot in the World Cup while avoiding missing a fourth straight tournament.
Zimbabwe might act as a spoiler given that they have been eliminated after losing all eight of their qualifications. Their seasoned goalie, Elvis Chipezeze, who is based in South Africa, is known for irritating opposition by executing amazing performances and inefficient strategies.
A major concern is Rwanda, being the only team to beat Bafana during the tournament. If South Africa does not take a quick lead, they could be punished by PSL-based goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari and midfield powerhouse Tawanada Chirewa.
This season marks the last phase in coach Hugo Broos’ role. It’s a unique opportunity for each player to leave their mark on South African historical football. Furthermore, for supporters, these games offer an experience of solidarity, enthusiasm, and faith in addition to qualifying.
More than just guaranteeing participation in the World Cup, winning both games would make it abundantly evident that Bafana Bafana is prepared to take the international scene back.
Bafana Bafana Full Squad.
Goalkeepers:
- Ronwen Williams
- Ricardo Goss
- Sipho Chaine
Defenders:
- Malibongwe Khoza
- Khuliso Mudau
- Aubrey Modiba
- Khulumani Ndamane
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi
- Thabang Matuludi
- Samukelo Kabini
- Nkosinathi Sibisi
Midfielders:
- Teboho Mokoena
- Sphephelo Sithole
- Bathusi Aubaas
- Thalente Mbatha
Forwards:
- Thapelo Morena
- Oswin Appollis
- Sipho Mbule
- Iqraam Rayners
- Lyle Foster
- Tshepang Moremi
- Mohau Nkota
- Relebohile Mofokeng
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