Broos Makes Three Changes As Bafana Face Rwanda In Must-Win Clash
Bafana Bafana have made three changes to their starting lineup for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday.
Under mounting pressure, South Africa must beat Amavubi and hope that Benin lose to Nigeria to keep their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, alive.
With Mbekezeli Mbokazi suspended after receiving a red card against Zimbabwe at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, coach Hugo Broos has opted to partner Khulumane Ndamane alongside Nkosinathi Sibisi in central defence.
Another change sees Thapelo Morena replacing Mahau Nkota, who started against Zimbabwe but was substituted at halftime. Morena also came on for Nkota during Friday’s match.
Up front, Evidence Makgopa leads the line in place of Lyle Foster, who was ruled out due to a knee injury.
Bafana Bafana currently sit second in Group C with 15 points from nine matches, two behind leaders Benin, who face Nigeria [third with 14 points] in Uyo later on Tuesday.
@BafanaBafana XI against @FERWAFA:
Williams; Ndamane, Sibisi, Mudau, Modiba, Mbatha, Mokoena, Mbule, Morena, Appollis, Makgopa
Subs: Chaine, Goss; Shabalala, Aubaas, Cupido, Sithole, Matuludi, Nkota, Moremi, Khoza, Kabini, Moloisane
In the African qualifiers, only the group winners automatically qualify for the World Cup, while the four best runners-up advance to a play-off round for another shot at qualification.
