Bafana Bafana start with win, Senegal cruise in World Cup qualifiers
Bafana Bafana started their journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a win over Benin. Senegal did not to engage second gear to overcome South Sudan. Tanzania picked up crucial points with a win away to Niger.
Percy Tau opened the scoring early in an almost empty Moses Mabhida Stadium after a neat passing move. This did not herald the opening of the floodgates, however, as Benin held on until just before halftime when Khuliso Mudau scored his maiden goal in national team colours. It was Themba Zwane who caused confusion with a flick and Mudau home from close range. Steve Monie’s equaliser did cause a few nerves but Bafana Bafana were largely in control for the Group C win.
Charles M’mobwa was the hero for the Taifa Stars of Tanzania after finding the net in the 56th minute against Niger. The Group E match took place in Marrakech, Morocco because Niger is unable to host international matches.
Pappe Matar Sarr opened the scoring in first minute, Sadio Mane added a second barely five minutes later and it was a training from there as Senegal eased past South Sudan in Group B. Mane collected his brace from the penalty spot in the second as Senegal maintained cruise control for the 4-0 win.
All the teams have now played one match each in the race for nine automatic qualifying spots. Four of the best runners-up will compete in a qualifying tournament to get the spot in an intercontinental qualifier for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
