Bafana Bafana utility player, Thapelo Morena, has discussed the importance of South Africa’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium, whilst emphasizing the need to build upon last Friday’s draw with Zimbabwe. 

South Africa played out to a goalless draw against Zimbabwe last Friday in Durban, in what was the penultimate round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. 

The result leaves the group wide open, as South Africa is among the three sides that could book their spot at next year’s World Cup. 

“So, what happened on Friday, happened, and now we’re fully focused on Tuesday’s game, because it’s one of the games that is important for us,” said Morena. 

South Africa currently sits second in Group C with 14 points after nine matches, two points behind group leaders Benin. 

“We, went on the Friday game, focusing on getting the goal, trying our level best to score, but we rushed our decisions,” added Morena. 

A win over Zimbabwe for Hugo Broos’ side would’ve put the pressure on first-placed Benin, who go into matchday 10 in pole position. 

“In this game, we’re going to, definitely going to go out guns blazing, but not, not, not, too edgy to get the goal,” added the 32-year-old. 

Morena and his teammates will be hoping Nigeria gives them a helping hand by taking maximum points from Benin n Uyo on Tuesday [18:00]. 

Anything less than a win would effectively end any hopes of South Africa featuring in their fourth FIFA World Cup.