WC takeaways: Evidently, Makgopa is not Messi, while Nigeria can’t spell victory without Victor

ON TUESDAY, the air across South Africa crackled with excitement as Bafana Bafana clinched their place in the prestigious FIFA World Cup, reigniting a passionate football fervour among fans nationwide.

This exhilarating achievement not only signifies a triumphant return to the global stage but also fills the hearts of supporters who have long yearned for this moment of elation.

As the CAF World Cup Group C qualifiers concluded dramatically, South Africa and Nigeria emerged as the standout heroes of the day, lighting up an already electric atmosphere with their impressive performances. The final matches exemplified the grit and determination of the teams as they vied for a spot in the sporting odyssey that captivates millions every four years.

We look at the takeaways of Group C’s final games, as the dust settles on the qualifiers and the excitement builds for the upcoming World Cup.

Evidently, Makgopa is not Messi

Evidence Makgopa shone like a beacon for Bafana, closing out victory against Rwanda with a goal and proving he’s a player to watch. Coach Hugo Broos has faced criticism for including Makgopa in the lineup, and at the post-match press conference, he didn’t shy away from addressing the sceptics.

“Look, he’s no Messi or Ronaldo,” Broos acknowledged, “but let’s be clear—he’s a player who can bring a lot to the team.” One thing’s for sure: Makgopa rises to the occasion when it counts the most. He slots seamlessly into Broos’ strategy and continuously makes his mark every time he hits the field.

First the yellow card, now the Trump card!

Thanks to US President Donald Trump and his group of 49 Afrikaner refugees who made the leap to America earlier this year, Bafana can count on a wave of support at next year’s Fifa World Cup. After Teboho Mokoena’s yellow-card debacle caused quite the headache for the nation, we all breathed a huge sigh of relief when Bafana Bafana secured their spot.

Mokoena described the disciplinary drama as a long, nerve-wracking journey—one that cast a shadow over his crucial participation in a key qualifier and put South Africa’s world stage dreams at risk. It was an experience that left him emotionally drained.

Nigeria can’t spell victory without Victor

Victor Osimhen’s stunning performance cemented Nigeria’s position in the playoff round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, igniting hopes for the Super Eagles’ success on the global stage.

Nigeria defeated Benin 4-0, with Osimhen scoring a hat-trick to showcase his exceptional talent. After the match, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) took to social media to express their admiration, highlighting Osimhen as the “main man” and his pivotal role in the victory with a post headlined: “Can’t spell Victory without Victor.” This sentiment quickly gained traction, reflecting the widespread recognition of his contributions both on the pitch and in the hearts of Nigerian supporters.

Leadership legacy: from Radebe to Williams

As the world turns its attention to the glitz and glamour of the Fifa World Cup, South African football finds itself both proud and hopeful under the leadership of its latest captain, Ronwen Williams.

The history of South African football in this illustrious tournament has seen iconic figures rise to the occasion, from Lucas Radebe and Aaron Mokoena to the new era embodied by Williams. Radebe (1998, 2002) and Aaron Mokoena (2010) led South Africa in previous World Cups.

Williams has led during qualifiers but not yet at a World Cup. He aims to make his mark on the international stage at the 2026 global showpiece.

Super Eagles are final matchday masters

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have become renowned for their electrifying qualifications that often hinge on nail-biting final matchday performances. Tuesday’s 4-0 win over Benin added another chapter to this gripping history.

There are four other memorable occasions when Nigeria clinched major tournament berths with final matchday victories.

*1994 World Cup Qualifiers: Nigeria 1–1 Algeria (Oct 8, 1993) - A draw secured Nigeria’s first World Cup spot, setting the stage for a golden era in football.

*2002 World Cup Qualifiers: Nigeria 3–0 Ghana (Jul 29, 2001) - A decisive victory over rivals Ghana propelled Nigeria to the top of Group B.

*2010 World Cup Qualifiers: Kenya 2–3 Nigeria (Nov 14, 2009) - Nigeria sealed a comeback victory with a late winner, while Tunisia’s loss ensured their qualification.

*2013 AFCON Qualifiers: Nigeria 6–1 Liberia (Oct 13, 2012) - A stunning home performance sent the Super Eagles to AFCON, leading to their eventual tournament victory.