South Africa book World Cup spot; Nigeria’s hope uncertain
South Africa booked their spot in the 2026 World Cup with a win against Rwanda in their last African qualifying group stage game on Tuesday, leaving Nigeria as second in the group.
With a 3-0 win against Rwanda, Bafana Bafana of South Africa garnered 18 points in ten games to grab the group’s World Cup ticket, while Nigeria would have to fight for a potential qualification in the play-offs.
Despite suffering a three-point deduction for fielding a suspended player, South Africa fought their way through with a crucial win.
Thalente Mbatha opened the scoring for South Africa just five minutes into the game at the Mbombela Stadium, while Oswin Appollis doubled South Africa’s lead in the 26th minute.
With the three-goal lead, South Africa has already secured their place in the 2026 World Cup.
Meanwhile, Nigeria put up a brilliant performance against the Benin Republic, winning 4-0 at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Tuesday, with the hope of qualifying for the World Cup.
Victor Osimhen netted a hat-trick. He scored in the third, 37th, and 51st minutes to help the Super Eagles grab all three crucial points.
Franklin Onyeka added a fourth for Nigeria. Though the win was not enough to help them finish atop the group, as South Africa edged Nigeria with a point through their victory against Rwanda, it reignited hope for the Super Eagles to fight for a World Cup slot in interconfederation play-offs.
With 17 points in 10 games, Nigeria fell behind South Africa’s 18 points and would be fighting for a possible qualification to the World Cup through playoffs in November.
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