south Africa Qualify for World Cup, Denying Nigeria Automatic Spot
PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA - south africa secured their place at the 2026 World Cup finals on Tuesday, topping Group C in CAF qualifying and eliminating Nigeria from automatic qualification. A 3-0 victory over Rwanda confirmed Bafana bafana’s progression, while Nigeria, despite a 4-0 win against Benin, will now enter a play-off round to fight for one of Africa’s remaining spots.
Nigeria’s qualifying campaign has been marked by instability and reliance on star striker Victor osimhen. Frequent changes in management – including Jose Peseiro and Finidi George – contributed to inconsistent results. George was dismissed after a 2-1 defeat away to Benin in June,leaving Nigeria in a precarious position. Eric Chelle was appointed in January, achieving an initial victory over Rwanda, but a late equaliser from Zimbabwe in Uyo stalled momentum.
The Super Eagles struggled for consistency without Osimhen, drawing 1-1 in south Africa last month and needing favorable results to secure automatic qualification. A nervy win over Lesotho on friday set up a crucial final match against Benin,where Osimhen proved decisive,scoring a hat-trick. He opened the scoring in the third minute, converting a through ball from Samuel Chukwueze, and doubled the lead eight minutes before halftime with a header from another Chukwueze cross. Osimhen completed his treble in the 51st minute with a diving header from a Moses Simon free-kick. Frank Onyeka added a fourth goal in stoppage time, volleying in a Simon cross.
Despite the 4-0 victory, South Africa’s dominant win over Rwanda proved decisive.Nigeria will now participate in a continental play-off next month, where they will compete with other nations for a limited number of remaining World Cup berths. Keeping Osimhen fit will be crucial for Nigeria’s chances of securing a place at the tournament.
