W’Cup: Rwanda embarrass South Africa with 2-0, boost Nigeria’s hope

Rwanda caused a major upset on Tuesday by defeating South Africa 2-0 during the Africa qualifying series for the 2024 World Cup,

With Nigeria securing only two points from their initial two games in Group C of the qualifiers, concerns arose about the possibility of missing out on the World Cup for the second consecutive time.

However, goals from Innocent Nshuti and Gilbert Mugisha ensured a three-point victory for the Amavubi Stars at Huye Stadium in Butare, Rwanda.

This triumph prevented South Africa from gaining six points in two games, which would have placed them firmly in control of the group.

Rwanda now leads the group with four points, followed by Bafana Bafana in second with three points, and Nigeria in third with two points. Lesotho and Zimbabwe share the same points as Nigeria but have scored fewer goals, while Benin Republic is in last place with one point.

The next round of games in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers is scheduled for June 2024 after two matches. Nigeria will face South Africa in a crucial encounter, aiming to revive their hopes of participating in the global competition after missing out in the 2022 edition. Before that, the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is set to take place in Cote d’Ivoire early next year.