The Zimbabwean Football Association (ZIFA) has explained why their match against Bafana Bafana on 10 October will take place at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

This is a FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifier, and while it’s a dead rubber for Zimbabwe, who are out of the running, it is a must-win for Bafana Bafana, who are top of Group C.

Zimbabwe plays their matches in South Africa because of a FIFA ban on their stadiums that do not meet international standards.

There were calls from Group C opponents such as Nigeria, who pointed out that it’s “unfair” that Bafana Bafana are playing at home even for their away matches.

Initially, Zimbabwe tried to take the match to Botswana. However, that did not materialize.

“ZIFA wishes to inform fans that the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa on 10 October will be played at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa,” the statement read.

“Originally, ZIFA had planned to host the match in Francistown, Botswana, but the venue became unavailable due to Botswana’s need to use the same stadium. After assessing alternatives across the region, only two suitable venues in South Africa remained: Orlando Stadium and Moses Mabhida Stadium. Taking into account logistics, cost, facilities, and fan safety, ZIFA chose Moses Mabhida Stadium to give the Warriors the best possible environment to compete.

“We understand the disappointment of not playing at home, but we urge all Zimbabweans to unite and rally behind the Warriors as they take on South Africa in this crucial World Cup qualifier.”