South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has expressed confidence that his team holds a strategic edge over Nigeria and Benin Republic as the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers enter their decisive stage.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Bafana Bafana’s crucial clash against Zimbabwe, the Belgian tactician explained that his side is in a strong position to secure qualification from Group C, given the current standings and remaining fixtures.
“Friday’s game is probably the most important one,” Broos said. “If we can win, we’ll have 17 points. Nigeria, even if they win both of their matches, can only reach 17 points, the same total Rwanda can get. But Benin can’t win their last two games because they still have to play against Nigeria and Rwanda. That’s why this match is so important for us.”
Broos’ calculations highlight the advantage South Africa could gain with a win over Zimbabwe, as it would put them level on points with the maximum Nigeria could achieve, while also limiting Benin’s potential to pull away.
Benin Republic is currently top of Group C with 14 points, edging South Africa on goal difference. Nigeria and Rwanda sit just behind on 11 points apiece, making the final two rounds of fixtures decisive in determining which team clinches Africa’s automatic ticket to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
With every point crucial and margins razor-thin, Broos and his men will be aiming to seize control of their destiny when they take on Zimbabwe.