Bafana rivals Benin hope to hold onto Group C lead as World Cup qualifying drama intensifies

CAF’s Fifa World Cup 2026 qualifying Group C is witnessing a tale of rising ambition and pressing challenges as Benin takes the lead, a position they have rarely occupied against the traditionally stronger South Africa.

The shift in momentum stems from a controversial Fifa sanction imposed on Bafana Bafana for mismanaging yellow cards during a match against Lesotho seven months ago. Fifa enforced a 3-0 forfeiture, catapulting Benin to the forefront of the qualifying race.

As Friday’s fixture against Rwanda in Kigali approaches, Benin finds itself in a rare and exhilarating yet precarious position, chasing a potential first-ever World Cup appearance. However, the road to glory is not without hurdles — a poor away record presents a significant challenge.

Benin have yet to win in their last three away matches, including a 2-1 defeat to South Africa, and draws against Lesotho (0-0) and Zimbabwe (2-2) highlight their struggles to secure points on the road. With remaining fixtures against Rwanda and Nigeria, Benin must win in Kigali’s Stade Amahoro to strengthen their bid for a historic qualification.

The stakes are equally high for Rwanda, who sit level on points and game results with Nigeria but trail Benin by three points. A recent 2-0 home win over South Africa in November 2023 marked their only victory in four matches in Kigali, underscoring the tension in this competitive group.

Rwandan coach Adel Amrouche’s side, buoyed by two away wins, poses a serious threat and could upset the balance in Group C. With minimal expectations and a spirited fanbase behind them, Rwanda may play with freedom and creativity, potentially challenging both Benin and Nigeria for qualification.

Meanwhile, all eyes will be on the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, where Nigeria face Lesotho in a pivotal clash on Friday. Nigeria sit third in the group and have had a rocky campaign, with only two victories — both against Rwanda — from eight matches. South Africa’s point deduction for Teboho Mokoena’s suspension has provided Nigeria a lifeline in their quest to avoid missing consecutive World Cups.

The stakes are high for Nigeria, who must secure maximum points against Lesotho and Benin while hoping South Africa falters against Zimbabwe and Rwanda. This scenario underlines the unpredictable nature of football, where a single match can alter the trajectory of nations competing for a place on the world stage.