BREAKING – Bafana Bafana have officially booked their place at the FIFA World Cup 2026, marking a proud moment for South African football as the national team returns to the world’s biggest stage since 2010.
The South African national team defeated Rwanda 3-0 at Mbombela Stadium, a result that saw Hugo Broos’ side finish at the top of Group C with 18 points and secure their spot on the global stage, set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Two first-half goals from Thalente Mbatha and Oswin Appollis, followed by a second-half header from Evidence Makgopa, were enough for Bafana Bafana to seal the win and celebrate in front of a packed stadium.
And we have qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup!!!! Yeeeeeeessssssss!!!! Let that sink in!!!!!
South Africa 🇿🇦 ♥️!!!@SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/d3NThOO8tc
— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) October 14, 2025
Bafana Bafana needed a win and for Nigeria to defeat Benin to secure the top spot in a tightly contested Group C and that’s exactly how it unfolded, with the Super Eagles cruising to a 4-0 victory.
South Africa dominated the entire match, determined not to make any mistakes on their path to qualification.
🇿🇦 16 years since hosting, @BafanaBafana will be back at the #FIFAWorldCup!@aramco | #WeAre26 pic.twitter.com/WxBEVqo1hC
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) October 14, 2025
