2026 WCQ: Zimbabwe to play qualifier against Bafana Bafana in South Africa

Zimbabwe have reversed earlier plan to relocate their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match, confirming Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium as the venue for their clash with South Africa on Monday, October 6, according to reports by IOL.

The change comes after Zimbabwe initially preferred hosting the match in Botswana. However, with the Zebras scheduled to play their own qualifier against Uganda on the same day, the southern neighbors had no choice but to revert to the originally planned South African venue.

The decision offers a boost to Bafana Bafana, who will now play their “away” match in familiar surroundings, potentially easing some of the pressure ahead of the crucial fixture.

Read Also: NFF debunks reports of FIFA clearing South Africa over Mokoena eligibility case

South Africa, leading Group C with 17 points, three clear of second-placed Benin, face additional uncertainty over the eligibility of midfielder Teboho Mokoena. Mokoena received two yellow cards leading up to South Africa’s 2-0 victory against Lesotho in March, prompting FIFA to open an investigation.

Should South Africa be found guilty, the team risks a points deduction and a 3-0 loss applied as punishment. Despite this looming issue, head coach Hugo Broos’ side remains in control of their destiny, with the final two rounds of qualifiers set to determine their return to the World Cup stage for the first time since 2002.

Zimbabwe, struggling in the group with just four points, and Nigeria, third on 11 points after an underwhelming campaign, now face the daunting task of contending with a Bafana side determined to secure qualification amid the ongoing investigation.

The venue confirmation in Durban provides some comfort for the hosts, allowing them to focus on maximising their advantage and maintaining their lead at the top of Group C.

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