Broos Unveils Preliminary Squad for Upcoming World Cup Qualifiers

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has named his preliminary squad for the team’s two final FIFA World Cup qualifying matches next month.

The squad sees the return of players who have been out with injuries, including Siphephelo Sithole and Khuliso Mudau.

Earlier this month, Bafana Bafana defeated Lesotho 3-0 and drew 1-1 with Nigeria at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein. The team will now face Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 10 October and then Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium a few days later. While the date for the Rwanda match is yet to be finalized, it is expected to be on 13 October.

Bafana Bafana currently sits at the top of Group C with 17 points from eight matches, leading Benin by three points. However, their position is under scrutiny. The South African Football Association (SAFA) is being investigated by FIFA for allegedly fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their March qualifier win over Lesotho. Mokoena had accumulated two yellow cards, which should have resulted in a one-match suspension.

If Bafana Bafana were to be docked points and a 3-0 win awarded to Lesotho, Benin would move into the top spot in the group. However, a source has indicated that Bafana Bafana is likely to receive a fine from FIFA, with no points being deducted.

In the African qualifiers, only the group winners automatically qualify for the FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. The four best-placed runners-up will get a second chance via a play-off round.