Farouk Abrahams: Why Bafana Bafana Can Still Make World Cup History

South African football fans have learned to temper their expectations, but according to respected football analyst Farouk Abrahams, Bafana Bafana are far from out of the World Cup race. In a recent analysis, Abrahams made a compelling case that Hugo Broos’s side can still book their ticket to the 2026 tournament — provided they seize the opportunities ahead.

The Current Landscape

Bafana Bafana currently sit in a precarious position in the CAF qualifying group, but Abrahams argues that the group is far from decided. With several matches still to play, including crucial home fixtures, South Africa can leapfrog rivals if they put together a consistent run. The expanded 48-team World Cup means Africa now has nine guaranteed slots, giving teams like Bafana a wider window than in previous cycles.

Abrahams points to the depth of the squad — a mix of experienced overseas-based players like Percy Tau and emerging talent from the PSL — as a reason for optimism. The team’s performances in the Africa Cup of Nations showed they can compete with the continent’s best when properly organized.

What Must Change

However, Abrahams does not sugarcoat the flaws. Bafana have been guilty of dropping points in matches they should have won, often due to a lack of sharpness in front of goal. To make history, the team must tighten up defensively and convert chances more ruthlessly. The upcoming fixtures against weaker opponents will be must-win, and Abrahams stresses that the mentality must shift from hoping for results to taking control of games.

Tactical flexibility will also be vital. Broos has experimented with formations, but Abrahams believes settling on a consistent starting eleven and a clear game plan will give the players the confidence needed to grind out results on the road.

Why It Matters Now

Making the World Cup would be a landmark achievement for South African football, which has not qualified for a tournament since hosting the 2010 edition. The psychological and financial boost would be immense for the PSL and the national setup. Abrahams emphasizes that this squad has the potential to end that drought, but the time for talk is over — action is needed in the next qualifiers.

Ultimately, the path is narrow but real. Bafana Bafana must treat every remaining game like a knockout. If they can string together wins, they will not only silence critics but also etch their names into World Cup history. The ball is in their court.