South Africa host Rwanda in a CAF qualifying tie with both sides eager to gain ground. Bafana Bafana have the home crowd advantage; Rwanda are organized enough to punish slack moments.



Recent Form, Lineups & Stakes
South Africa’s probable XI includes: Ronwen Williams (GK); Mudau, Sibisi, Morena, Modiba; Sithole, Teboho Mokoena, Nkota, Mbule, Appollis; and Foster up front. Rwanda’s probable: Ntwari (GK); Kavita, Mutsinzi, Manzi, Niyomugabo; G. Mugisha, Muhire, Bizimana, Mickels; and Nshuti in attack.


Tactical Nuances & Key Battles

  • - Midfield compression: South Africa must dominate centrally through Mokoena and Mbule.
  • - Fullback control: Mudau and Modiba should time overlaps carefully to avoid counters.
  • - Vertical passes: With Foster’s movement, diagonal service can break Rwanda’s shape.
  • - Compact defending: Rwanda will sit deep; patience and smart positioning are key.
  • - Set‑pieces: South Africa can exploit aerial mismatches.


Head‑to‑Head & Stats
Rwanda shocked South Africa 2–0 in the reverse fixture. Historically, though, Bafana have more depth and quality, but they can’t afford complacency.


Prediction
Expect a tight match with South Africa controlling tempo. Prediction: South Africa 1–0 Rwanda.