Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos remains confident of his side’s chances of qualifying for the World Cup.
The South Africa national team were flying high at the top of Group C before being docked three points for fielding an ineligible player.
Teboho Mokoena played in the victory over Lesotho in March when he was suspended for picking up two yellow cards.
Bafana are currently in second place on the standings with 14 points from eight games, behind leaders Benin on goal difference.
Nigeria occupy third place with 11 points, ahead of fourth-placed Rwanda, also on 11 points.
Broos’ side finishes their qualifying campaign with games against Zimbabwe on Friday and Rwanda on Tuesday.
“Friday’s game (against Zimbabwe) is maybe the most important,” said Broos in the Citizen.
“If we win that game we have 17 points. If Nigeria win their two games they can only get 17 points. It is the same for Rwanda. But if they (Nigeria and Rwanda) win their two games, then Benin cannot win two games.
“There has never been a doubt (about qualification) from my side. I will try to transfer that to the group. I am sure on Friday they will do everything to win the game. And why should we doubt it given the past performances?”