After a tense qualifying campaign, South Africa sets its sights on preparing for the global stage, building momentum ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the ultimate goal, the 2026 World Cup.
Mbombela, South Africa (15 October 2025) – For the first time since 2010, South African football fans don’t have to support other nations in a World Cup. Put the calculators aside, grab your passports and get ready because Bafana Bafana are returning to the world’s grandest football stage for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Back in 2023, Hugo Broos made a statement that raised a couple of eyebrows:
“If I fail to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Don’t even fire me. I will resign myself.”
Well, its safe to say no resignations are needed, Broos delivered!
It has been a journey of ups and downs. After points were docked and qualification heartbreaks in past campaigns, the nation can finally celebrate.
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The historic qualification came on Tuesday night at Mbombela Stadium, where Bafana Bafana defeated Rwanda 3-0 thanks to goals from Thalente Mbatha, Oswin Appollis, and Evidence Makgopa.
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This marks South Africa’s fourth World Cup appearance, joining 1998, 2002, and 2010, but it carries an extra special weight. It’s the first time the nation has qualified on merit since 2002. No hosting perks, just earned success on the pitch.
Looking ahead, Bafana Bafana will turn their focus to December’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, sharpening their skill for the big stage next year.
For now, South Africans can breathe and dream big. After years of near misses and heartbreak, the national team is finally representing the country on the biggest football platform in the world.
Sources: SuperSport
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