Benin Republic 0-2 South Africa: Bafana Bafana strangle Nigeria's World Cup hopes

South Africa’s national football team, Bafana Bafana, secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Benin Republic in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, Ivory Coast on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

South Africa dominated proceedings from start to finish to further solidifying their position at the top of Group C in the African section of the qualification campaign.

The first half ended goalless, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm but with South Africa creating the better chances in the game.

Benin started the second half with some promise, but their defensive lapses proved costly.

In the 52nd minute, South Africa broke the deadlock through Lyle Foster, finding space in the box to beat Benin’s goalkeeper, Dandjinou.

Benin struggled to mount a meaningful response, and South Africa sealed the win in the 84th minute with a header from Jayden Adams, who rose highest to meet a precise free-kick delivery.

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Benin, despite their earlier success in the qualifiers—such as a 2-1 win over Nigeria were unable to break through South Africa’s backline.

The second goal sparked celebrations among the South African contingent as they held on to earn a three vital points in their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

This result strengthens South Africa’s lead in Group C with just four matches left in the group for every team.

In other group games, the Amavubi of Rwanda played out a 1-1 draw against Lesotho while the Super Eagles of Nigeria were held at home by Zimbabwe.