Warriors coach Michael Nees says he is mindful of the suspicion that could arise about favouring South Africa when the two teams meet this evening in their penultimate 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Group C match.

Zimbabwe are already out of contention, but Bafana Bafana are targeting a crucial win to strengthen their position at the top of Group C and move closer to automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Nees said his team will aim to play competitively and avoid any suggestion of bias towards their neighbours.

“Our prime motivation is to be proper footballers, sportsmen, and fair competitors,” said Nees. “We want to improve as a team and not be accused of anything improper, because it’s our duty to be true competitors.”

The match will be played at a neutral venue, Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. Kick-off is at 6 pm CAT.