Zimbabwe to host Bafana Bafana in Durban for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, ending weeks of venue uncertainty in Group C

Zimbabwe to host Bafana Bafana in Durban as ZIFA confirms Moses Mabhida Stadium as the venue for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying fixture. The match will take place on Friday, 10 October at 3pm.

Also read: Eagles W’Cup qualification in danger after Bafana stalemate

The announcement brings an end to weeks of speculation surrounding the location of the Group C clash.

With Zimbabwe lacking a CAF- and FIFA-approved stadium for international matches, they have frequently turned to South Africa as a base for their home fixtures.

ZIFA had reportedly explored alternative venues outside of South Africa to avoid giving Bafana Bafana a home advantage.

Botswana was considered as a potential host, with Francistown’s Obed Itani Chilume Stadium proposed.

However, the plan was dropped due to a scheduling conflict—the Botswana national team is set to play at the venue a day earlier.

That left Zimbabwe with two options: Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg or Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. The latter has now been confirmed, giving fans clarity ahead of the key encounter.

This decision could carry significant implications for the Group C standings.

With only two matches left in the qualifying campaign, both Benin and Nigeria—who are trailing leaders Bafana Bafana—were hoping Zimbabwe would play the fixture at a neutral or less favourable venue for the South Africans.

Instead, Zimbabwe to host Bafana Bafana in Durban could work in Bafana’s favour, given their familiarity with South African pitches and fan support.

ZIFA released a brief statement: “ZIFA confirms that the Warriors will face Bafana Bafana on Matchday 9 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban.”

Also read: Eagles W’Cup qualification in danger after Bafana stalemate

As the World Cup race intensifies, all eyes will be on Durban, where the outcome could shape the final standings in one of Africa’s most competitive qualifying groups.