Bafana Bafana face a significant logistical challenge as they are unable to train at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny on Monday ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Benin on Tuesday (18:00).

This disruption stems from Ivory Coast’s own World Cup qualifier against Gambia, scheduled at the same venue, Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny, on Monday at 21:00.

Consequently, Bafana Bafana will only experience the match-day pitch on Tuesday.

FIFA and CAF regulations mandate that both teams train at the venue on the eve of the match. However, Ivory Coast’s hosting of Gambia prevents this.

This forces the Bafana Bafana technical team and management to find an alternative training location before Tuesday’s game, a situation likely to frustrate coach Hugo Broos.

Broos, who is scheduled to address the press conference in the next hour, is expected to criticize Benin and Ivory Coast officials for their handling of the situation.

Broos has previously voiced his displeasure regarding nations playing matches outside their home venues, advocating for bans in such cases.

Benin is among the 12 CAF member associations unable to host FIFA or CAF matches due to their stadiums’ failure to meet required standards.

This situation prompted Bafana Bafana to delay their departure from South Africa to Ivory Coast. They utilized the extra time for recovery and preparation after their 2-0 victory over Lesotho at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Friday, before traveling on a chartered flight midday Sunday.

The late departure, which raised eyebrows, was reportedly a strategic move by the team to mitigate potential frustrations, according to Sportswire sources, who suggest it was an intentional tactic by Benin officials.

While Bafana Bafana secured a win against Lesotho, Benin drew 2-2 with Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Thursday.

Bafana Bafana currently lead Group C with 10 points, followed by Benin with eight, after both teams have played five matches.

A positive aspect for Bafana Bafana, after the Benin match, is that their remaining four group matches will be played in South Africa. Lesotho and Zimbabwe will host their home games in South Africa as they are banned by CAF due to having no stadium meeting its standard. Bafana Bafana has already played away matches against Rwanda and Nigeria, with the return legs scheduled in South Africa.

Only the group winners will automatically qualify for the FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. The four best-placed runners-up will have a second chance through play-offs.