Bafana Bafana’s 2-0 defeat to Rwanda last November still lingers.
Now, Hugo Broos’ men must turn the tables in Mbombela to keep the World Cup dream alive.
When South Africa steps onto the Mbombela pitch on Tuesday night, more than three points will be at stake; Rwanda owes a payback.
FIFA WORLD CUP 2026 QUALIFIER: BAFANA BAFANA VS RWANDA
South Africa face Rwanda once again, the same team that shocked Mzansi 2-0 in Butare in November 2023.
That wet afternoon remains one of the low points of South Africa’s qualifying campaign. On a heavily waterlogged artificial pitch, Hugo Broos’ side were stunned early as Innocent Ntshuti and Gilbert Mugisha put Rwanda two goals up inside 28 minutes.
How did the team selection look on that matchday two of 10? The Belgian tactician started with Mamelodi Sundowns superstar Ronwen Williams in goal. Protecting him was backline of Khuliso Mudau, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Siyanda Xulu and Aubrey Modiba.
In midfield, the trusted duo of Sphephelo Sithole and Teboho Mokoena struggled to dominate. Percy Tau, Themba Zwane, Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Mihlali Mayambela combined in attack but never managed to find a goal for Bafana Bafana.
From the bench, Broos tried Oswin Appollis, Zakhele Lepasa, Elias Mokwana, and Evidence Makgopa, but Rwanda remained unbreakable. The Wasps simply wanted it more on the day.
Surviving players from that team:
Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba, Sphephelo Sithole, Teboho Mokoena,
Subs: Oswin Appollis, Evidence Makgopa and Ricardo Goss.
After Friday’s goalless draw against the 10-man Warriors of Zimbabwe at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, South Africa’s 2026 dream is hanging in the balance.
Benin’s shock win over Rwanda left them two points clear at the top of Group C. Broos’ side must beat Rwanda and hope Nigeria does them a favour by stopping Benin in Uyo.
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