Breaking: South Africa qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup

South Africa have officially booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dominant 3–0 victory over Rwanda at the Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday night.

Bafana Bafana went into their final Group C clash knowing that a win coupled with Nigeria’s triumph over Benin would secure top spot and direct qualification. And that’s exactly how the night played out, as both results went their way.

Thalente Mbatha set the tone early, firing home a composed finish that sent the home crowd into raptures. Moments later, Iqraam Rayners Appollis doubled the lead with a stunning strike that left Rwanda’s goalkeeper, Fiacre Ntwari, rooted to the spot.

The second half saw Hugo Broos’ men turn up the heat, dominating possession and carving out wave after wave of attacks. Makgopa and Nkota came close, while Mudau’s curling effort narrowly missed the post. Appollis continued to torment the visitors down the flank, drawing fouls and keeping Rwanda under constant pressure.

Their dominance finally paid off in the 72nd minute when Evidence Makgopa rose highest to meet Appollis’ pinpoint corner, heading home from close range to seal the win and with it, South Africa’s long-awaited return to the World Cup.

The result sees Bafana Bafana top Group C with 18 points, marking their first World Cup qualification since 2010 — a triumphant moment for South African football and a testament to the team’s resurgence under Hugo Broos.