We’re not thinking about FIFA deduction: Williams

October 9, 2025 23

Bafana Bafana captain, Ronwen Williams, says the team is fully focused on securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they prepare for Friday evening’s crucial Group C clash against Zimbabwe.

The Warriors will host Bafana at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban due to a lack of suitable facilities in Zimbabwe.

A win against Zimbabwe — followed by another against Rwanda in Mbombela on Tuesday — would put South Africa within touching distance of next year’s World Cup finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Six points from the two matches would leave Benin as the only side who could catch South Africa, and while they currently top Group C on goal difference, Gernot Rohr’s side have far more difficult-looking fixtures away to Rwanda and Nigeria.

Bafana’s qualification was made more difficult after they were docked three points by FIFA for fielding Teboho Mokoena ineligibly in March.

“The three point deduction wasn’t good news, but there is nothing we can do about it,” Williams told journalists yesterday at the Zimbabwe pre-match press conference.

“Either way, these two games were going to be important. We’ve got a team that means business,” he added.

The South African senior men’s national team was given a rousing welcome after landing in Durban today.

Coach Hugo Broos’ charges are away to Zimbabwe 🇿🇼 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in a crunch 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier on Friday.

⏰️ 18h00 #BafanaPride @SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/etk13w9vWK

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) October 9, 2025

South Africans have rallied behind the team, vowing to support them all the way to qualification.

I need Bafana Bafana to win these 2 games my goodness 😭😭. It’s literally the only thing I’m thinking about. 🥹💚

— Lionella🌻 (@fruitcakesana) October 9, 2025

Bafana Bafana has a crucial match against Zimbabwe, aiming to reclaim the top spot in Group C after a setback with point deductions. It’s vital for them to secure a win to boost their chances for the World Cup! Let’s rally behind our team as they face this challenge. Hope they

— Julia Obrien (@toehi62414999) October 9, 2025