Overview

• South Africa must beat Rwanda in Mbombela on October 14 while Nigeria defeat Benin in Uyo to qualify directly from Group C.
• A draw between Benin and Nigeria could still see South Africa top the group if Bafana win by a margin that overcomes goal‑difference tiebreaks.
• If Benin beat Nigeria, South Africa cannot finish first, with their fallback being a potential runners‑up route that depends on CAF rankings.
• Standings before kickoff: Benin 17 points (GD +5), South Africa 15 (GD +3), Nigeria 14 (GD +3) after Bafana’s 0-0 draw with Zimbabwe.
• FIFA converted South Africa’s earlier win over Lesotho to a 3-0 loss for fielding suspended Teboho Mokoena, with South Africa pursuing an appeal.