Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos expects a victory against Zimbabwe in their Tuesday World Cup qualifier at Toyota Stadium, unlike the challenging circumstances faced against Nigeria last Friday.

Bafana’s trip to Nigeria was marred by a delayed chartered flight that forced a refueling stop and late arrival on the eve of the game. Despite these travel difficulties, Bafana fought valiantly to earn a draw. Themba Zwane opened the scoring with a skillful move before Nigeria equalized in the second half.

Now, hosting last-placed Zimbabwe in Bloemfontein with a smooth journey behind them, Broos anticipates a more energized team.

“I’m happy that my players will be on the kickoff in the better circumstances rather than on Friday against Nigeria,” said Broos. 

“They will not be exhausted anymore or tired, we slept well from Saturday when we arrived here. We had dinner and after that the boys had a nice time sleeping.  

“So, I think we will be physically hundred percent ready.”  

“Maybe little, little doubt on Percy, but otherwise I don’t think we will have any problems,” said Broos. 

“But, as I said, we will have to win it and I will not be happy, not alone, all South Africans will not be happy if we don’t win against Zimbabwe. 

“The setup of the group, you can see anyone can win against anyone and if we can plan and win all your games at home, you will be close to (qualify for the World Cup).”  

Nine group winners will qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico.