South Africa Seals Historic World Cup Return After 15 Years

South Africa Seals Historic World Cup Return After 15 Years 

Sampson Adedeji

The Bafana Bafana of South Africa have officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after an emphatic 3-0 victory over Rwanda in Johannesburg on Tuesday evening, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The win secured South Africa’s top spot in Group C with 18 points, one point ahead of second-placed Nigeria, who finished on 17 despite a 4-0 win over the Benin Republic.

It marks a remarkable comeback for the South Africans, who will be making their first World Cup appearance since they hosted the global showpiece in 2010.

Bafana Bafana dominated the encounter from start to finish, displaying confidence and composure.

Early goals set the tone before a third in the second half sealed a comprehensive victory in front of an ecstatic home crowd.

Head coach Hugo Broos has been widely praised for rebuilding the team and instilling a strong sense of discipline and belief. His young side navigated a tough group that included Nigeria, Benin, and Rwanda to clinch automatic qualification.

With this achievement, South Africa joins the growing list of African nations booking their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

For the first time in 15 years, the world will once again see the green and gold of South Africa shine on football’s grandest stage.