Bafana Bafana Focus on Kaizer Chiefs Goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari in Upcoming World Cup Qualifiers

Bafana Bafana will closely monitor Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari during the next FIFA calendar dates as they aim to navigate the final rounds of Group C World Cup qualifiers. South Africa’s qualification is no longer guaranteed after being docked three points for fielding an ineligible Teboho Mokoena in the March match against Lesotho.

Benin currently lead the group with 14 points and a +4 goal difference, narrowly ahead of Bafana on 14 points and a +3 goal difference. This makes Benin’s trip to Rwanda on October 10 at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali a fixture of significant interest for South Africa.

Amavubi will field Ntwari between the posts despite the goalkeeper not having played competitive club football for the past 11 months. His last appearance for Kaizer Chiefs was on November 2 last year. Despite the long absence from club action, Ntwari has maintained his position as Rwanda’s first-choice goalkeeper and has impressed in international matches.

Bafana will play against Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium later on October 10, while Rwanda will travel to South Africa to face Bafana at Mbombela Stadium on October 14. These matches will test both South Africa’s squad depth and tactical preparation as they attempt to capitalize on home advantage.

Meanwhile, Benin will face Nigeria on the same day that Bafana host Rwanda, meaning South Africa will be watching multiple fixtures that could influence their qualification hopes. Ntwari’s performance for Rwanda will be a key factor, and Bafana will need to prepare thoroughly to overcome the challenges posed by the in-form goalkeeper.

The final two games present a crucial window for Bafana Bafana to secure a World Cup spot despite setbacks earlier in the qualifiers. With careful planning and focus, South Africa will aim to maximize home advantage and navigate the complex group dynamics to maintain their chance of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup.