South Africa are just one win away from booking their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup but they will also be hoping Lesotho do them a huge favour.
FIFA announced on Tuesday that Bafana Bafana will qualify if they beat Nigeria in Pretoria tonight and Lesotho deny Benin victory in their Group C clash.
“Two more teams could secure @fifaworldcup 26 qualification today! Egypt will qualify if they beat Burkina Faso, while South Africa will qualify if they beat Nigeria, and Benin fail to beat Lesotho,” the world governing body posted on X.
Bafana Bafana currently lead Group C with 16 points, six clear of the Super Eagles. A win would tighten their grip on top spot and leave Nigeria battling to keep their hopes alive.
However, Bafana Bafana’s qualification push faces a potential twist. Lesotho have lodged a protest with FIFA, demanding South Africa be docked three points for fielding an ineligible player in March. Midfielder Teboho Mokoena, suspended after two yellow cards, was controversially selected against Lesotho.
FIFA has yet to deliver a verdict on the case meaning South Africa’s road to the World Cup could be decided both on and off the pitch.
