
Tue Oct 14 16:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided information, along with a brief summary of the entire text:
**Summary:**
The text covers two distinct topics:
1. **Mo Salah’s Form:** Former Liverpool player Steve Nicol suggests Mo Salah may be experiencing a crisis of confidence due to recent performances.
2. **Bafana Bafana World Cup Qualifying:** South Africa’s national football team faces Zimbabwe in a crucial World Cup qualifier. They are in a tight race to top their group after a points deduction. The article details squad selection, key players, and the importance of the upcoming match.
**News Article:**
**Bafana Bafana Face Zimbabwe in Critical World Cup Qualifier Amidst Controversy**
**Durban, South Africa** – Bafana Bafana are set to clash with Zimbabwe on Friday, October 10th at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban in a vital CAF FIFA World Cup qualifying match. Kick-off is scheduled for 6:00 PM CAT (4:00 PM GMT).
Hugo Broos’ side finds themselves in a precarious position in Group C after a three-point deduction due to fielding an ineligible player. While technically an away fixture for Zimbabwe, the match will be played on South African soil, a controversial advantage according to Benin coach Gernot Rohr.
A win is crucial for Bafana Bafana, who are currently tied with Benin at 14 points, trailing on goal difference. Only the group winner automatically qualifies for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The four best runners-up will have a second chance to qualify for inter-continental playoffs.
The squad sees some notable absentees. Despite his impressive form for Orlando Pirates, Kamogelo Sebelebele misses out, as does veteran striker Bradley Grobler, despite topping the scoring charts in the Betway Premiership. Sipho Mbule appears to have edged out fellow Orlando Pirates teammate Patrick Maswanganyi in the squad. The Bafana Bafana squad will be bolstered by the return of Khuliso Mudau and Sphephelo ‘Yaya’ Sithole from their respective absences.
The match will be broadcast on SuperSport and SABC. With the pressure mounting and qualification hanging in the balance, Bafana Bafana will need to overcome Zimbabwe and solidify their chances of reaching the 2026 World Cup.