South Africa have qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after beating Rwanda 3–0 at the Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday night.
Bafana Bafana went into the final Group C game knowing they needed a win and for Nigeria to defeat Benin Republic to top the group. Both results went their way, sealing South Africa’s direct qualification.
Thalente Mbatha opened the scoring early with a fine strike that lifted the home fans. Iqraam Rayners Appollis then doubled the lead with a powerful shot that left Rwanda’s goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari helpless.
In the second half, Hugo Broos’ team controlled the game, creating several chances through Makgopa, Nkota, and Mudau. Their pressure finally paid off in the 72nd minute when Evidence Makgopa headed in from an Appollis corner to make it 3–0.
The win means South Africa finish top of Group C with 18 points, booking their first World Cup appearance since 2010. It marks a proud moment for South African football and a major success for coach Hugo Broos, who has rebuilt the team into a strong and confident side.
