Bafana Bafana returns to FIFA World Cup after 16 years. They qualified beating Rwanda. Image credit: Bein Sports
South Africa booked their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding 3-0 victory over Rwanda at the Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga on Tuesday night. Goals from Oswin Appollis, Thalente Mbatha, and Evidence Makgopa sealed the win and confirmed their place at next year’s global showpiece in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Under coach Hugo Broos, Bafana Bafana finished top of Group C with 18 points from 10 matches, narrowly edging out continental powerhouses Nigeria and surprise contenders Benin. Benin, who had been leading the group before the final round, were overtaken after a heavy 4-0 defeat to Nigeria, with Victor Osimhen netting a hat-trick and Frank Onyeka adding the fourth.
Bafana marks 24 years, since last qualified
This qualification marks South Africa’s fourth appearance at the FIFA World Cup, following tournaments in 1998, 2002, and 2010, the latter as hosts. It also ends a 16-year absence from football’s biggest stage.
Now, a new generation of stars led by Percy Tau, Lyle Foster, and Teboho Mokoena will look to revive the spirit, identity, and competitive edge of a nation eager to shine again among football’s elite.
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