2026 WCQ Group C: South Africa take full control, Nigeria and Rwanda fall victim to late levelers

Three matches from a tightly contested Group C kicked off a grand finale of matches on Tuesday from 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying in the African region. The group now has a lot more clarity at the top as South Africa dominated their match and enjoyed the chaos below them as they extended their lead. Nigeria and Rwanda both appeared set for victory only to fall short.

Benin 0-2 South Africa

A Lyle Foster goal broke the deadlock as Bafana Bafana added some distance between themselves and the rest of the group. South Africa were well in control against Benin in Ivory Coast. Foster's final touch from a Fawaaz Basadien cross snuck through Benin goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou before slowly rolling off the post and just over the goal line.

Jayden Adams confirmed the victory with his late goal. Another strong performance from Bafana Bafana who dictated the tempo of the match and found their scoring boots ahead of the second half.

Nigeria 1-1 Zimbabwe

The Super Eagles did not have it easy against a Zimbabwe side who are much better than their position at the foot of the group indicates. Nigeria asserted themselves more and more as the match wore on and Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock in the 74th minute by heading in an Ola Aina cross.

However, Nigeria paid for failing to finish their opportunities and the Warriors equalized late in dramatic fashion through substitute Tawanda Chirewa. The Super Eagles' momentum has been halted and now it is looking more and more like second place is the best they can hope for. Time still remains however.

Rwanda 1-1 Lesotho

Like Nigeria, it was a similar story for Rwanda who lost their focus at the end and were forced to settle for a point against scrappy Lesotho. Jojea Kwizera latched onto a long ball and fired in the opening goal for Amavubi but Lehlohonolo Fothoane provided the late equalizer for the visitors. A major opportunity lost to strengthen Rwanda's position in second place.

Group C Table (6 matches played)

• The group winner qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

• Four of the nine group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental qualifying playoff.