South Africa Qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup After 3–0 Win Over Rwanda

South Africa 3–0 Rwanda (Full-Time): Bafana Bafana have officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding victory over Rwanda in Mbombela on Tuesday, coupled with Nigeria’s win over Benin Republic.

Hugo Broos’ men delivered a confident and composed performance, dominating from start to finish to secure automatic qualification from Group C.

The home side made the perfect start, taking the lead in the 6th minute when Thalente Mbatha fired a stunning strike into the top corner from the edge of the box.

South Africa doubled their advantage in the 27th minute, thanks to Apollis, who reacted sharply to bury the rebound after missing his initial shot from Aubrey Modiba’s low cross.

At halftime, Bafana Bafana led 2–0 and looked firmly in control, with Rwanda struggling to keep possession or create clear chances.

The hosts continued to press after the break, and in the 72nd minute, Evidence Makgopa put the result beyond doubt, rising highest to head home Apollis’ precise corner and make it 3–0.

Despite a few nervy moments, South Africa maintained their dominance, with Appollis proving a constant threat down the flank and the defense holding firm to preserve a clean sheet.

The victory sees South Africa finish top of Group C with 18 points, securing automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

It’s a massive moment for coach Hugo Broos and his team, who avenged their earlier 2–0 loss to Rwanda in November 2023 and capped off their qualifying campaign in style.

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