South Africa solidified its position as the latest African nation to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup by defeating Rwanda with a score of 3-0 on Tuesday, successfully topping their qualifying group despite facing a three-point deduction for previously fielding an ineligible player.

This qualification marks South Africa’s first return to the World Cup since it automatically qualified as the host nation in 2010.

The outcome of the match leaves Nigeria to finish second in the group, necessitating a playoff for qualification. Nigeria triumphed over Benin with a score of 4-0, featuring a hat trick from the star striker Victor Osimhen. Notably, Benin was leading the group before the conclusion of the final round.