South Africa’s 3-0 victory over Lesotho in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers has made Nigeria’s path to the finals more difficult.
Bafana Bafana remain top of the group after goals from Mohau Nkota, Lyle Foster and Oswin Appollis secured a comfortable win in Bloemfontein. The result keeps them three points clear of Benin, who beat Zimbabwe 1-0 thanks to a Steve Mounie header.
Nigeria are now nine points behind South Africa. The Super Eagles must close the gap quickly when they host Rwanda, Saturday, before travelling to face the group leaders in a crucial clash next Tuesday.
South Africa’s place at the top is not yet certain, as FIFA is still to decide on their use of midfielder Teboho Mokoena in March against Lesotho when he was suspended. Coach Hugo Broos admitted the error but pointed out no protest was made.
Only the winners of each of Africa’s nine groups will qualify directly for the tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States. The best four runners-up will go into the play-offs for another chance to reach the finals.
For Nigeria, victory in their next two matches is essential if they are to keep alive hopes of automatic qualification.
