High stakes, high drama.
On a Tuesday night that gripped the continent, the destinies of two of Africa’s footballing powers – Nigeria and South Africa – played out in striking contrast. As President Cyril Ramaphosa rejoiced over Bafana Bafana’s 3-0 win and automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, President Bola Tinubu urged the Super Eagles to stay hopeful after a convincing 4-0 win against Benin Republic helped them snatch a lifeline from the jaws of elimination.
Two Giants, One Rivalry and Bragging Rights
From the Godswill Akpabio Stadium to the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, the long-standing football rivalry between two of the continent’s leading economies was centre-stage. It went beyond the football pitches separated by thousands of miles. It was a symbolic contest between two African giants.
According to 2025 projections, South Africa leads with a projected GDP of about $410.3 billion, followed by Egypt, Algeria, and Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country.
On football pedigree, Nigeria still holds the bragging rights as perennial contenders and three-time champions (1980, 1994, 2013) of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). South Africa lifted the famous trophy on home soil in 1996.
The Super Eagles have also appeared at six FIFA World Cups – 1994, 1998, 2002, 2010, 2014, and 2018 – reaching the knockout stage three times. In contrast, South Africa has made three appearances – 1998, 2002, and 2010, but have never advanced beyond the group stage.
In direct football contest, Nigeria has eight wins against two for South Africa since 1992. The last three matches between both countries, including the 1-1 stalemate in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Bloemfontein on September 9, all ended in draws.
Tuesday’s result, with South Africa defeating Rwanda 3-0 to clinch the sole Group C World Cup ticket and Nigeria’s hope of securing qualification via the play-offs, adds a fresh chapter to the rivalry.
Ramaphosa’s Flight of Joy
For President Cyril Ramaphosa, the triumph was both personal and patriotic. Watching the game live on his phone mid-flight, he expressed his excitement as South Africa booked their place at next year’s World Cup to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
“Congratulations to Bafana Bafana on securing South Africa’s place in FIFA World Cup 26,” Ramaphosa posted on X. “We look forward to our flag flying in Mexico, the United States, and Canada among the banners of the world’s most skilled and motivated footballers. Well done to everyone on the pitch, on the bench, and in the boardrooms who made this qualification a moment of pride.”
In another post, he added, “We are going to the 2026 FIFA World Cup! Well done to the entire @BafanaBafana team. As always, South Africa will be right behind you, supporting you all the way.”
His joy was fitting. For the first time since the 2010 edition, the Rainbow Nation will return to football’s biggest stage – a validation of four years of rebuilding under coach Hugo Broos.
Tinubu’s Call to Keep the Faith
For President Bola Tinubu, it was more hope than celebration. A statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga noted that Tinubu congratulated the Super Eagles for their 4-0 win over Gernot Rohr’s Benin, in Uyo.
Acknowledging the team for keeping the nation’s hope alive as they pursue qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the President commended the Super Eagles “for the hunger, passion, and determination displayed on the field in Uyo, noting that the superlative performance has reignited Nigerians’ football pride.”
“While the job is not yet complete, I join millions of Nigerian football fans in wishing our team every success in the playoffs,” Tinubu said. “The mood across the country reflects a shared belief that Nigeria deserves a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As your President, I assure you and the coaching crew of the Federal Government’s support as you strive to secure your place at the tournament. Nigerians everywhere believe in you, and I do too.”
The Road Ahead
In November, Nigeria will head to the CAF play-offs in Morocco determined to seize their last chance of qualification; with the winners securing a slot in the intercontinental playoff in Mexico next March. Meanwhile, South Africa is already preparing in earnest for a return to football’s biggest stage with a renewed sense of national pride, beating Nigeria at the final hurdle.
Ramaphosa’s Bafana Bafana are touching the sky, while Tinubu’s Super Eagles are spreading their wings, for now. Football rivals united by one dream: to see their flags among global football elites at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Two presidents, two contrasting tones; of unbridled joy and patient hope. Both staking claims to national pride through football.
