Bafana Bafana’s October fixtures have been officially released ahead of a tense international break that could decide South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup fate.
Bafana Bafana October 2025 fixtures confirmed
The announcement comes just after FIFA confirmed on Monday, 29 September 2025 that South Africa has been docked points for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in the 2–0 win over Lesotho earlier this year.
That ruling, which saw the victory forfeited and recorded as a 3–0 loss, has made the two October fixtures against Zimbabwe and Rwanda absolutely crucial.
Hugo Broos’ side must win both matches to guarantee their spot at the World Cup in North America.
The fixtures are:
- Friday, 10 October 2025, 15:00 (SAST) – Zimbabwe vs South Africa, Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban
- Tuesday, 14 October 2025, 18:00 (SAST) – South Africa vs Rwanda, Mbombela Stadium, Mpumalanga
Tickets for the home match against Rwanda are already on sale through TicketPro outlets.
Bafana Bafana squad ahead of crunch 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
Coach Hugo Broos has named a 45-man preliminary squad, which will later be trimmed to 23 players for the final games.
The provisional list includes key figures such as goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, defenders Khuliso Mudau and Thabiso Monyane, midfielders Bathusi Aubaas and Siphesihle Sithole, and attackers Lyle Foster, Evidence Makgopa, and Bongokuhle Hlongwane.
The return of European-based players like Luke le Roux (Portsmouth), Foster (Burnley), and Mihlali Mayambela (Aris Limassol) adds depth and international experience.
However, the spotlight remains on Teboho Mokoena, who was at the centre of the FIFA sanction. Although he has been warned by FIFA, he is still eligible for the final fixtures, and it will be up to Broos whether he includes the Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder in the trimmed squad.
The FIFA ruling has reshaped Group C. South Africa, once clear at the top, are now tied closely with Benin and Nigeria. With Rwanda also in contention, the last two matches will determine who goes through.
Where and when to watch the matches
Both matches will be broadcast live in South Africa on SABC Sport and SuperSport.
Kick-off times are:
- Zimbabwe vs South Africa – 15:00 (SAST), Friday, 10 October 2025
- South Africa vs Rwanda – 18:00 (SAST), Tuesday, 14 October 2025
Fans unable to attend can also stream the matches via SABC+ and DStv Now.
With the sanction now official, the stakes have never been higher for Bafana Bafana.
Victories against Zimbabwe and Rwanda will not only secure a World Cup ticket but also restore faith after the costly administrative blunder.