Bafana Bafana put up a show for the the thousands of fans who thronged the Free State Stadium with a scintillating performance to defeat Zimbabwe 3-1 in a pulsating 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday night.
Coach Hugo Broos’ boys got off the blocks very early in the game when Iqraam Rayners scored the opening goal of the match inside the first minute as the Free State Stadium erupted into ecstasy as the fans celebrated the home team’s dream start to the game.
But Zimbabwe dramatically replied a minute later when Tawanda Chirewa scored the equaliser to momentarily put a damper on the celebrations.
The home side threw everything forward in search of another goal but went back into the dressing room deadlocked at 1-1.
The South African team returned with more purpose in the second period and substitute Thapelo Morena regained the lead ten minutes after resumption. The same player put the game beyond the visitors when he scored his second of the night and the third for Bafana Bafana in the 76th minute with a clinical finish into the bottom corner.
South Africa are now second in qualifying FIFA World Group C with seven points, behind group leaders Rwanda on goal difference.