The Warriors pulled off a surprise result on Friday evening, holding South Africa to a goalless draw in a World Cup Qualifier at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
While the fixture had no bearing on Zimbabwe’s qualification hopes, the outcome proved costly for South Africa, who are still fighting for a World Cup slot.
The stalemate left Bafana Bafana on 15 points — two adrift of Group C leaders Benin, who extended their lead after defeating Rwanda.
South Africa dominated much of the first half, with their best chance coming in the 43rd minute when Mohau Nkota’s shot struck the upright. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, struggled to create opportunities before the break.
After halftime, Lilly Foster came close to scoring for South Africa when he rounded goalkeeper Washington Arubi, but Divine Lunga made a goal-line clearance to keep the scores level.
The Warriors were reduced to ten men in the 63rd minute after captain Knowledge Musona received a second yellow card and was sent off.
Arubi emerged as Zimbabwe’s standout performer, pulling off several key saves late in the game to ensure his side secured a valuable draw.
Despite the result, Zimbabwe remains bottom of Group C with 5 points — 12 behind leaders Benin — and are yet to register a win in the campaign.
The Warriors will wrap up their qualification journey on Monday when they face Lesotho at Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Group C Standings:
1. Benin – 17 pts
2. South Africa – 15 pts
3. Nigeria – 14 pts
4. Rwanda – 11 pts
5. Lesotho – 9 pts
6. Zimbabwe – 5 pts
ALSO READ : Broos: “We Don’t Need Favours from Zimbabwe”
For comments, Feedback and Opinions do get in touch with our editor on WhatsApp: +44 7949 297606 or Email: editor@thezimbabwetimes.co.zw.
