Bafana Bafana defender Nkosinathi Sibisi has echoed coach Hugo Broos’ sentiments that the upcoming clash against Zambia cannot be regarded as a friendly, given what’s at stake in boosting South Africa’s FIFA World Ranking.
The next FIFA World Rankings, set to be released on 21 November, will play a crucial role in determining the seedings for the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw, scheduled for 5 December in the United States.
Bafana Bafana will be part of the draw after qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 2002. This milestone has prompted Broos to insist that the encounter with Zambia must be treated with full seriousness, as a strong performance could help improve South Africa’s global ranking.
Despite securing World Cup qualification in October, Bafana Bafana dropped from 55th to 59th in the most recent rankings.
They drew 0–0 with Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium before defeating Rwanda 3–0 at Mbombela Stadium to top Group C and seal their ticket to next year’s global showpiece — ending a 22-year wait for qualification.
“I think we totally agree with the coach — there is no such thing as a friendly game,” said Sibisi.
“As soon as you wear that jersey and step onto the field, it’s war — a peaceful war. But come Saturday, all guns will be blazing.”
Much is at stake for the players, as this will be Bafana Bafana’s final match before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which kicks off in Morocco on 21 December and runs until 18 January next year.
Training sessions at Ellis Park Stadium have reflected that intensity, with players pushing hard to impress the technical team before final selections.
Broos confirmed that he will announce a provisional squad of over 50 players on 8 December, before trimming it down to 26 for the tournament in Morocco.
“We always train as if it’s our last session,” added Sibisi, who was part of the Bafana Bafana side that won the AFCON bronze medal in Ivory Coast earlier this year — their first in 24 years.
“We don’t take it for granted to be here. It’s always a privilege to represent the national team, and you have to earn your place by performing well for your club.”
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