World Cup Qualifier: South Africa vs Rwanda Preview

Rwanda's threat to South Africa's World Cup dreams

The battle for World Cup qualification heats up as South Africa takes on Rwanda. Bafana Bafana need a win against Rwanda to stay in the World Cup hunt.

Rwanda boasts a formidable squad with several talented players who can potentially derail...

South Africa's World Cup dreams are precariously hanging in the balance as they face Rwanda in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier. Despite being favorites, Bafana Bafana know that they need a win to keep their World Cup hopes alive. Coach Hugo Broos acknowledges the daunting task ahead, admitting that qualification is no longer solely in their hands. They require not only a victory but also a significant margin to potentially leapfrog current group leaders.

Match Context and Predictions

The match between South Africa and Rwanda is expected to be intense, with both teams needing a win to progress in the World Cup qualifiers. South Africa has shown resilience in recent matches but faces a tough challenge against Rwanda, who will be playing for pride and crucial points. Given the stakes, both teams are likely to field strong lineups, with South Africa's Ronwen Williams potentially retaining his spot in goal. Predictions suggest a close match, with some favoring South Africa's experience and quality to edge out Rwanda.

Key Rwanda Players to Watch

Rwanda boasts a formidable squad with several talented players who can potentially derail South Africa's World Cup aspirations. 

Some key players to watch include:

FIACRE NTWALI'S CHALLENGE

Fiacre Ntwali's recent selection for the Kaizer Chiefs' Carling Knockout fixture may have inadvertently prepared him for Bafana Bafana, given his impressive outing. Having not played since November 2024, Ntwali will be keen to prove himself and put on a match-winning performance. His familiarity with many of the Bafana players from the South African PSL could be a double-edged sword, either boosting his confidence or adding pressure to perform.

Gym session done,
Fatigue tamed.
Now, it’s time to let the night heal and restore.
Amavubi’s first day in South Africa.

Ijoro ry’Amavubi rya mbere muri Afurika y’Epfo rirahumeka ituze.#TuriAmavubi.💪🏿
🇷🇼🇷🇼🇷🇼🇷🇼🇷🇼🇷🇼 pic.twitter.com/Kp8KkdJWIf

— Rwanda FA (@FERWAFA) October 11, 2025

DEFENSIVE MIDFIELD ANCHOR

Bonheur Mugisha is a skilled defensive midfielder who excels in shielding his team's defense. With experience playing in Libya, Tunisia, and Egypt, the 25-year-old has developed into a key player for Rwanda's national team over the past three years. His ability to break up opposition attacks and provide defensive solidity will make him a crucial player to overcome for Bafana Bafana.

ABEDDY BIRAMAHIRE'S PROFILE

Abeddy Biramahire is a dynamic left winger known for his creativity on the field. Despite his skill, he has had a journeyman's career, playing for ten teams since 2018, including his current club, ES Setif in Algeria. Biramahire's playing style is centered around creating scoring opportunities rather than scoring himself, with both of his international goals coming in 2017. However, he poses a significant threat from wide areas, making him a player to watch out for.

INNOCENT NSHUTI'S PROFILE

Innocent Nshuti is a skilled forward with a knack for scoring crucial goals. He currently plays for ES Zarzis in Tunisia and has experience playing in various countries, including the United States and Azerbaijan. Nshuti's recent form is impressive, with goals in wins over Benin and Nigeria, and he's also known for scoring against South Africa in their last meeting. His ability to score important goals makes him a key player for Rwanda.

First training in Mpumalanga,
not just drills,
but redemption in motion.
Amavubi rises, for the pride and pulse of the nation.

Amavubi asoje imyitozo ya mbere ku kibuga mu Ntara ya Mpumalanga, yitegura urugamba rwo ku wa kabiri.#TuriAmavubi💪🏿
🇷🇼🇷🇼🇷🇼🇷🇼🇷🇼🇷🇼 pic.twitter.com/5NDlvf1SY9

— Rwanda FA (@FERWAFA) October 12, 2025

JOJEA KWIZERA (RHODE ISLAND FC, UNITED STATES)

Midfielder Kwizera was born in the DR Congo, has spent much of his life in the United States and represents Rwanda at international level. He currently plays for second-tier side Rhode Island, but has played a significant part in this campaign for Rwanda, scoring against Lesotho both home and away. He was previously at Canadian MLS side CF Montreal but did not earn a regular spot before moving to Rhode Island.