JOHANNESBURG: Bafana Bafana have officially booked their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding 3-0 victory over Rwanda at the Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday evening.
The result, coupled with Nigeria’s emphatic win over Benin, ensured that South Africa topped Group C to secure automatic qualification for the global football showpiece, their first World Cup appearance since 2010.
Head coach Hugo Broos’ men entered the final qualifier knowing that victory alone might not be enough unless results elsewhere favored them.
Their hopes were boosted early when Nigeria took the lead in their home fixture against Benin, setting the stage for South Africa’s dream night.
Moments later, midfielder Thalente Mbatha fired a long-range strike past Rwandan goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari to give Bafana the opener.
Their dominance continued as Oswin Appollis doubled the lead in the 25th minute with a sharp volley.
Meanwhile in the Nigerian capital, Victor Osimhen extended the Super Eagles’ lead to 2-0 before halftime, effectively putting Benin out of contention and giving South Africa a clear route to qualification.
Although Bafana Bafana missed a few chances after the break, Evidence Makgopa sealed the night in the 72nd minute with a composed finish that confirmed their World Cup return.
With the win, South Africa finished top of Group C with 18 points, while Nigeria, despite their strong finish, settled for second place.
The qualification marks a new milestone for Broos and his team, the first time South Africa will feature at the FIFA World Cup since hosting it in 2010.
The boys showed great maturity and belief, Broos said after the match. We knew what was at stake, and we’re proud to bring South Africa back to the world stage.
For many fans, Nigeria’s dominant performance against Benin played a decisive role, with South Africans across the country celebrating both Bafana’s victory and the Super Eagles’ crucial assist.
