Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie
Durban – Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has rallied behind Bafana Bafana following their disappointing 0-0 draw against Zimbabwe in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, 10 October 2025. In a passionate statement, McKenzie acknowledged the subpar performance but expressed unwavering hope in the team, calling on them to rise to the occasion ahead of their next match against Rwanda. “Truth be told, that was not our best performance for such a crucial game, we have absolutely no choice but to fight harder against Rwanda,” McKenzie said. “I still have hope in @BafanaBafana, let’s rally behind our Boyz on Tuesday, we don’t give up we rise to the occasion. We shall qualify.”
The minister’s words come as South African football fans grapple with the frustration of a missed opportunity in matchday 9 of the CAF qualifiers, where Bafana needed a win to bolster their chances of reaching the expanded 48-team tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Despite dominating possession, Hugo Broos’ side failed to break down a resilient Zimbabwean defence, leaving their qualification fate hanging in the balance. As the team prepares for the decisive clash with Rwanda on Tuesday, McKenzie’s message of resilience has sparked renewed calls for national support amid growing concerns over Bafana’s inconsistent form.
Disappointing Draw Leaves Bafana’s World Cup Hopes in Jeopardy
The match against Zimbabwe was billed as a must-win for Bafana Bafana, who entered the fixture needing maximum points to stay competitive in Group C. South Africa controlled the game with over 60% possession and created several chances, but poor finishing and solid goalkeeping from Zimbabwe’s Donovan Bernard kept the scores level. A red card to Zimbabwe captain Knowledge Musona in the second half gave Bafana a numerical advantage, but they could not capitalize, resulting in a frustrating stalemate.
Coach Hugo Broos expressed his disappointment post-match: “We had the game in our hands but lacked the killer instinct.” Zimbabwe’s coach Baltemar Brito hailed the result as a “heroic point” for his side, praising their defensive resilience. The draw has left South Africa vulnerable, especially after Benin’s win in their concurrent fixture, tightening the race for qualification spots.
Africa will have nine automatic qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, up from five in previous editions, offering Bafana a realistic shot at their first appearance since hosting in 2010. However, with only one match left after Rwanda, Bafana must secure victories to avoid playoffs or elimination.
McKenzie’s Role and Call for National Unity
As Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie has been vocal about supporting South African teams, often using social media to motivate players and fans.
His reaction to the draw emphasizes perseverance: “We don’t give up we rise to the occasion. We shall qualify.” McKenzie’s statement has resonated with many, drawing praise for boosting morale amid criticism of the team’s performance.
In recent months, McKenzie has addressed other football issues, including a FIFA sanction that docked points from Bafana for fielding an ineligible player in a prior qualifier against Uganda. He called for a probe into SAFA’s “incompetence,” vowing to hold officials accountable. Broos responded by taking responsibility, saying, “I’m responsible, I’m the coach.” McKenzie’s hands-on approach has made him a prominent voice in South African sport, blending encouragement with demands for excellence.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The result triggered a wave of disappointment online, with #BafanaBafana trending as fans vented frustration. Comments ranged from “We need changes now!” to calls for Broos to step down. However, McKenzie’s message inspired some optimism, with users echoing his call to “rally behind our Boyz.”
Zimbabwean fans celebrated the point, viewing it as a moral victory against a stronger side. Local pundits like Mark Fish criticized Bafana’s lack of creativity, urging better preparation for Rwanda.
Looking Ahead to the Rwanda Clash
Bafana’s next qualifier is against Rwanda on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, a must-win to keep dreams alive. Broos plans tweaks, possibly recalling key players or shifting tactics to unlock defences. With AFCON 2025 qualifiers also on the horizon, the team faces pressure to regain form.
McKenzie’s encouragement could galvanize support, but Bafana must deliver on the pitch. As fans gear up, the hope is for a stronger showing to secure that elusive World Cup spot.
🔴 Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 115 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition of Central News | Headline: Ngwathe Municipality Refuses to Back Down, Heads to Supreme Court of Appeal
Download Here:
Direct PDF File Here:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Central-News-Issue-115-1.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube