Bafana Bafana took a firm grip of Group C in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers when they beat Benin 2-0 on Tuesday to extend their lead to five points over second place.
South Africa are now on 13 points from six matches, with both Rwanda and Benin on eight, Nigeria with seven points while Lesotho and Zimbabwe have six and four points respectively.
Following their win away to Benin, there are a number of lessons drawn from Hugo Broos’ team.
Can anyone breach Bafana defence?
It is now six hours of football since Bafana Bafana last conceded with the win over Benin their fourth straight clean sheet.
In fact, South Africa have conceded just one goal in their last six games, the 1-1 draw with Congo in October 2024, and it does not matter whom they field in defence.
Siyabonga Ngezana and Nkosinathi Sibisi have been the centre-backs in the March qualifiers but they looked like they have been playing together for long, a big plus for South Africa and coach Broos.
Rele No.10 experiment fails
After his goal and assist against Lesotho, Relebohile Mofokeng was deployed in the No.10 role against Benin but he struggled in his new surroundings.
Used to cutting onto his stronger right foot when playing on the left wing, Rele struggled to make an impact and was taken off after 65 minutes.
Coach Broos will now have to deploy him in his familiar surroundings going forward to reap the maximum benefits.
Mbatha, Aubass combo shines
Thalente Mbatha and Bathusi Aubass were impressive in central midfield yet they are not even Broos’ preferred starters in the position.
Their combination was a joy to watch and kept Benin very quiet. Their performance is an extra headache for Broos when Tebohoho Mokoena is back and Sphephelo Sithole returns from injury.
Is it time to drop Percy Tau?
Percy Tau returned to the side last June, having missed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, but he has not covered himself in glory in the two matches.
His performances have been sub-par and fans are left wondering if he should be dropped for a more in form forward or should he just be retained because he is experienced?
Broos benefits from strong bench
So strong is the Bafana squad that Jayden Adams can start, score and drop to the bench the following match while Iqraam Ryaners is not even getting a look in.
There are also the likes of Sithole, Rushwin Dortley and Themba Zwane out injured and these quality options offers Broos the best possible opportunity to always select a strong squad and have a quality bench.
