South Africa have booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 3-0 victory over Rwanda in Mbombela on Tuesday, finishing top of Group C despite being docked three points earlier in the qualifiers for fielding an ineligible player.
Goals from Thalente Mbatha, Oswin Appolis, and Evidence Makgopa sealed a memorable night for the Bafana Bafana, marking their return to football’s biggest stage for the first time since 2010.
Mbatha opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a calm finish before Appolis doubled the lead just before halftime. Makgopa then added a third goal midway through the second half to end Rwanda’s hopes and secure South Africa’s qualification.
The result means South Africa finished the group stage with 18 points from a possible 30, showing strong consistency throughout the campaign.
It was a moment of pure joy across the country as fans in Johannesburg celebrated the end of a 16-year wait for World Cup action.
Coach Hugo Broos praised his players after the win, saying, “This team has shown great character. We made mistakes along the way, but the spirit and discipline carried us through. This is a victory for South Africa.”
The qualification marks South Africa’s fourth World Cup appearance, having previously featured in 1998, 2002, and 2010, when they hosted the tournament. Their best finish remains 17th place at the 2002 edition in Korea-Japan.
With stars like Percy Tau, Lyle Foster, and Teboho Mokoena leading the new generation, the team will look to make a strong impression at the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico and expanded to 48 teams for the first time.
South Africa’s success also meant Nigeria finished second in Group C and will now need to go through a playoff round to keep their qualification hopes alive.
