Haskins tips Bafana Bafana to make a winning start to 2026 World Cup bid

This week’s Soccer Laduma guest predictor is former Moroka Swallows midfielder Mark Haskins. Fri 17 Nov (21:45) - Denmark v Slovenia (UEFA Euro Qualifier): Topof-the-table clash in Group H with the winner guaranteed a place at next year’s tournament. Both sit on 19 points, separated by goal difference. Denmark, who won the tournament in 1992, beat San Marino in their last match, while Slovenia got the better of Northern Ireland. Mark Haskins: Denmark win

Sat 18 Nov (15:00) - South Africa v Benin (CAF World Cup Qualifier):

Hugo Broos’ men will get the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign underway at home, before traveling to Rwanda for Tuesday’s encounter. The last time Bafana Bafana qualified for the global showpiece was in 2002 and with Lyle Forster ruled out, the head coach has a tough decision to make about who will start up front. Mark Haskins: South Africa win

Sat 18 Nov (16:00) - Armenia v Wales (UEFA Euro Qualifier):

Wales will qualify for EURO 2024 if they beat Armenia and Croatia lose to Latvia in another Group D match. On the other hand, the home side will be out if they lose. Wales, post-Gareth Bale era, have won three of their last five encounters.

Mark Haskins: Wales win

Sun 19 Nov (21:45) - Portugal v Iceland (UEFA Euro Qualifier): Portugal have already booked their place in the finals after beating Slovakia 3-2 and this game will give manager Roberto Martinez an opportunity to try different combinations. Iceland are in fourth position in Group J and must win both their remaining games to have any hope of qualifying.

Mark Haskins: Portugal win

Mon 20 Nov (21:45) - Ukraine v Italy (UEFA Euro Qualifier): Lots at stake in this EURO 2024 Group C qualifier because it could decide who qualifies for the finals alongside England. Ukraine are in second place on 13 points, while Italy are third with 10 points and a game in hand.

Draw