Official: Venue for Bafana vs Zimbabwe Clash Confirmed 

Bafana Bafana and Zimbabwe are set for a high-stakes clash in the FIFA World Cup qualifier at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban

The venue has been a point of contention, with the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) forced to host their home games in South Africa due to their own stadiums failing to meet CAF and FIFA standards. 

This has led to considerable outcry, as it hands Bafana an undeniable home-turf advantage in what should be an away fixture. 

WHY FIFA FORCED ZIMBABWE TO GET ANOTHER VENUE 

The debate intensified when Zimbabwe initially sought to move the match to Botswana on October 10. This proposal, however, was blocked by the South African Football Association (SAFA), who cited a scheduling conflict with Botswana’s own qualifier against Uganda the day before.

FIFA sided with SAFA, confirming Moses Mabhida as the host venue, much to the chagrin of the Zimbabwean camp.

This crucial encounter is not just about the on-field battle; it's also overshadowed by a potential bombshell from FIFA. 

Bafana currently lead their group with 17 points, three clear of Benin, but their 2-0 victory over Lesotho is under investigation. The world football body is looking into the eligibility of midfielder Teboho Mokoena. 

Should FIFA find Bafana guilty of fielding an ineligible player, they could be docked three points, a penalty that would see them drop to second place on goal difference. 

This would completely alter the qualification permutations, forcing Bafana to win their final two games against Zimbabwe and Rwanda. 

They would also need to either outscore Benin or hope The Squirrels drop points in their own remaining fixtures to secure their spot at the World Cup. The stakes could not be higher, with a victory for Bafana potentially solidifying their position, or a loss opening the door for a dramatic turn of events.