16.10.2025
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Bafana Bafana demolish Rwanda to book World Cup berth

5 mins



  • Bafana Bafana’s Khuliso Mudau winning a battle in a match against Rwanda.

The South African national team has officially punched their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, following an emphatic 3-0 triumph over Rwanda in a crucial Group C showdown at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday night.

Under immense pressure after being docked three points earlier this month for fielding a suspended player, Bafana Bafana entered the match knowing only a comprehensive victory would suffice. They needed not just a win but a convincing three-goal margin, while also relying on favorable results from the group’s other key fixture: archrivals Nigeria versus Benin. Nigeria, despite a shaky qualifying campaign, delivered a spirited performance, netting four goals against Benin—a development that only strengthened South Africa’s chances as they dominated proceedings against the Rwandan side.

Orlando Pirates’ dynamic midfielder Thalente Mbatha announced Bafana’s intent early, unleashing a thunderous strike in the 6th minute that set the tone for the evening.

His club teammate Oswin Appolis doubled the lead 20 minutes later, giving the hosts a comfortable cushion to head into halftime.

The victory was sealed emphatically in the 72nd minute by yet another Pirates star, Evidence Makgopa, who powered a header from a corner into the net—cementing South Africa’s first qualification for the World Cup via the qualification process in 23 years. The last time Bafana Bafana earned their spot on merit was back in 2002; the 2010 World Cup appearance came as hosts of the continent’s inaugural tournament.

With Africa being awarded a historic 10 slots for the 2026 tournament, all nine group leaders will qualify automatically, while the four best runners-up will battle for the final spot. Finishing top of Group C with 18 points, South Africa edged Nigeria, who finished second with 17 points, which won’t be enough to qualify them as one of the best runners-up.

For Bafana Bafana, this milestone marks a triumphant return to the world stage—one that fans across the nation will celebrate with pride and anticipation for the journey ahead.

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