2026 World Cup qualifiers: Rwanda shock South Africa, Super Eagles get lifeline as Benin held Lesotho

In what was a shock result in the latest round of Africa 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers, Rwanda recorded a 2-0 win over South Africa at the Huye Stadium on Tuesday afternoon handling a life line to the Super Eagles of Nigeria to probably clinch the Group C ticket.

Nigeria, South Africa, Benin, Rwanda, Zimbabwe and Lesotho are housed in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The mundial will be hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico.

Nshuti opened the scoring in the 12th minute before Mugisha doubled the lead on 28 minutes.

For Bafana, it is a first defeat after two games played so far.

A win for Bafana would have moved them four points clear of the Super Eagles and maintain top spot.

In the group’s other game, Lesotho were forced to a goalless draw by Benin Republic.

After the end of matchday two Rwanda, on four point top the group, South Africa occupy second spot on three points.

The Super Eagles (two points), Lesotho (two points), Zimbabwe (two points) are third, fourth and fifth respectively while Benin Republic are bottom on one point.