Thapelo Morena’s Brace Leads South Africa to Crucial World Cup Qualifier Win

Thapelo Morena’s impact off the bench proved crucial as South Africa secured a vital 3-1 victory over Zimbabwe in a key 2026 Fifa World Cup Qualifier at the Free State Stadium. The match saw high intensity and drama from the get-go, with early goals from Iqraam Rayners and Tawanda Chirewa lighting up the opening minutes.

Bafana Bafana took the lead within 30 seconds as Rayners capitalized on Munashe Garananga’s mistake to coolly slot home. Zimbabwe responded quickly, with Chirewa’s precise finish making it 1-1 shortly after. Despite the early exchange of goals, South Africa dominated possession and created numerous chances, with Oswin Appollis testing Geofrey Chitsumba with a powerful strike.

Zimbabwe posed a sporadic threat, forcing Ronwen Williams into action with a sharp save off Chirewa. As the first half progressed, South Africa upped the pressure with Rayners and Teboho Mokoena going close, but the teams went into halftime level at 1-1.

The second half saw a change for South Africa as Thapelo Morena entered the fray, making an immediate impact in the 55th minute by pouncing on a loose ball to give his side the lead. Morena added a second goal in the 76th minute, showcasing his quality by rounding Chitsumba to calmly finish.

Despite missed opportunities to extend their lead, South Africa held firm to secure the win, moving joint top of Group C alongside Rwanda and Benin. The result leaves Zimbabwe still seeking their first victory in the qualifiers, languishing at the bottom of the standings.

South Africa’s performance was highlighted by Morena’s heroics, while key players such as Rayners, Appollis, and Mokoena also played crucial roles in the victory. The atmosphere at the Free State Stadium was electric as Bafana Bafana delivered a performance that will boost their aspirations of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.