CAPE TOWN (MDN, CONVERSEER) – Belgian Coach Hugo Broos has guided South Africa’s national football team, Bafana Bafana, to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The team secured their spot with a decisive 3–0 victory over Rwanda on October 14, 2025, in Mbombela, marking their first World Cup appearance since hosting the tournament in 2010.
This qualification ends a 16-year drought and comes after a tumultuous campaign. Earlier in the qualifiers, South Africa faced a significant setback when they were docked three points for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in a match against Lesotho.
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Despite this challenge, Broos’ side demonstrated resilience, finishing first in Group C with 18 points. Their qualification was further secured by Nigeria’s victory over Benin, which ensured South Africa’s advancement.
Broos, a seasoned Belgian coach, took over the Bafana Bafana reins in 2021. His leadership has been instrumental in revitalizing the team.
As South Africa prepares for the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the team aims to build on this success and make a significant impact on the global stage.
