What stands between Bafana and World Cup qualification

What Bafana need to qualify for the 2026 World Cup

Katlego Sekhu

Bafana Bafana took a massive step towards securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against rivals Nigeria in Bloemfontein. The result leaves them in a commanding position at the top of Group C with just two games remaining.

The clash with the Super Eagles was tense throughout. South Africa took the lead through an own goal from Nigeria’s William Troost-Ekong, before Calvin Bassey equalised for the visitors just before half-time. While a win would have sealed qualification, the draw keeps South Africa firmly ahead in the group with 17 points from eight matches.

They now sit three points clear of Benin, who are second on 14 points, and six points ahead of Nigeria on 11.

With two fixtures left, the path to the World Cup is clear. A single victory in either of their final qualifiers, against Zimbabwe or Rwanda, will be enough to guarantee their place at the tournament in Canada, Mexico and the USA.

One more win would take them to 20 points, a tally Benin cannot surpass, as they can only reach a maximum of 20. Even if Benin were to win both remaining matches and finish level on points, South Africa’s superior goal difference and head-to-head record would almost certainly see them through.

Bafana Bafana’s fate is now firmly in their own hands.