South Africa booked its place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday, October 14, after defeating Rwanda 3-0 to top its qualifying group, becoming the latest African nation to secure direct qualification. Despite being docked three points earlier in the campaign for fielding an ineligible player, the Bafana Bafana triumphed to seal their first World Cup appearance since 2010, when they participated as hosts.
The result saw Nigeria finish second in the group, forcing the Super Eagles into the playoff route for qualification. Nigeria had earlier thrashed Benin 4–0 at home, with star striker Victor Osimhen netting a hat-trick. Benin, which had led the group before the final round of matches, fell short as South Africa’s commanding victory ensured their return to the world’s biggest football stage.