The Bafana's will be making their fourth FIFA World Cup appearance next year — and their first since hosting the tournament in 2010 with 18 points out of a potential 30.
The Bafana Bafana has rejoined the ranks of football’s elite. The team, led by Hugo Broos, secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup by defeating Rwanda 3-0 on the last day of the African qualifiers — a result that enabled them to surpass Benin and Nigeria in one of the continent’s most competitive groups.
They demonstrated their consistency and discipline in a qualifying zone where every match was crucial. The win ignited celebrations in Johannesburg, where thousands of supporters rejoiced at the conclusion of a long and arduous wait.
South Africa 3–0 Rwanda – South Africa scorers: Mbatha (5), Appollis (26), Makgopa (72)
Elsewhere, Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen had an outstanding match as Nigeria beat Benin 4–0 in Uyo.
The Super Eagles started strong when Samuel Chukwueze intercepted a loose pass and quickly passed to Osimhen, who scored just three minutes into the game.
Benin struggled to recover from this early goal. Before halftime, Osimhen scored again with a powerful header from Chukwueze’s perfect cross, making it 2–0 for Nigeria.
Osimhen completed his hat-trick six minutes into the second half by nodding in a free-kick from Moses Simon, which crushed Benin’s hopes.
Late in the match, substitute Frank Onyeka added another goal, making it 4–0. This loss dropped Benin from first to third place and allowed South Africa to take the top spot and qualify automatically.
Nigeria finished in second place and will now wait to see if they qualify for the FIFA Play-off Tournament as one of the four best runners-up.
Nigeria 4–0 Benin – Nigeria scorers: Osimhen (3, 37, 51), Onyeka (90)
