Bafana Bafana’s frustrating goalless draw with Zimbabwe was a stark
lesson in the psychology of African football. As the team regroups for a
must-win World Cup qualifier against Rwanda on Tuesday, the warning from
Friday’s match is clear: underdog opponents are often driven by pride, not
just points.
Despite dominating possession and hitting the woodwork twice, South Africa
could not break down a determined Zimbabwean side. The Warriors’ subsequent
celebrations, which some perceived as mockery, were actually a statement of
integrity.
A source close to the Zimbabwean camp revealed the team was motivated by
pre-match talk that dismissed them as a walkover.
“The only reason Zimbabwe celebrated is because it was proof that they
didn’t give the game away,” the source said. “If they had lost, it would
have portrayed them like they sold the game. People thought it would be an
easy walkover… That message reached their camp and motivated them even
more.”
This is the critical mindset Bafana Bafana must correct before facing
Rwanda. Coach Hugo Broos acknowledged the disappointment but stressed the
need to rebuild belief, especially with goal difference potentially deciding
the tight Group C.
“I will do everything to once again have a team that believes on Tuesday,
one that will try to win the game with as many goals as possible,” Broos
stated.
However, belief must be tempered with respect. The source warned that Rwanda
presents an even greater threat, fueled by the same desire to prove
themselves on the continental stage.
“Rwanda will go tooth and nail to upset South Africa,” he cautioned. “This
game is going to be worse. They will fight because everyone wants to show
they can stop South Africa. It’s pride, it’s visibility, it’s African
football.”
The final qualifier will ultimately test Bafana’s character more than their
skill. The key takeaway from the Zimbabwe stalemate is that in African
football, you must win the mental battle before you can win the game.
“The approach let Bafana down. Bafana won before they played,” the source
concluded. “Now the message must be right… Let the players know Rwanda is
tough, that they must fight. Then you’ll see the difference.”
