The journey for a 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket, hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, concluded with South Africa’s outstanding performance. The Group C match took place on Tuesday evening at 6:30 PM in the Mbombela Stadium.
The game kicked off with intensity and determination on both sides. However, South Africa made an early statement in the 5th minute when Thalente Mbatha, seizing an opportunity, delivered a powerful strike that struck the back of Rwanda’s net, earning South Africa their opening goal of the match.
Building upon this momentum, South Africa dominated the gameplay, outclassing Rwanda in every area and consistently pushing toward their opponent’s goal, hunting for their second goal. Finally, in the 26th minute, Oswin Appolis doubled South Africa’s lead, ensuring a stronghold on the game. Despite some late efforts by Rwanda to gain more ball possession, the first half ended in South Africa's favor.
In an attempt to change their fortunes, Rwanda made tactical substitutions in the second half. Jojea Kwizera was substituted with Imanishimwe Emmanuel, known as ‘Mangwende.’ Nonetheless, South Africa maintained their solid performance.
Although Rwanda had chances, like Nshuti Innocent’s powerful shot in the 54th minute that was deflected for an unsuccessful corner, they struggled to penetrate South Africa's defense. On the other hand, South Africa sealed the game in the 72nd minute when Evidence Makgopa scored a header off a perfectly delivered corner kick, making it 3-0.
The final whistle declared South Africa’s significant 3-0 victory. With their 18-point campaign in Group C, they secured their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This achievement marks a historic moment for South Africa as they qualify for their fourth World Cup appearance, having last participated in 2010 as hosts. This victory solidifies their status as one of Africa’s elite football teams.
In another Group C fixture, Nigeria defeated Benin 4-0, thanks to goals from Victor Osimhen and Frank Onyeka. Though Nigeria topped off their campaign in second place with 17 points, their impressive performance did not impact South Africa’s triumphant conclusion to the group stage as leaders.
Meanwhile, Rwanda’s World Cup qualifiers journey concluded in 5th place in Group C, finishing just above the last position with a total of 11 points.
