2026 World Cup Qualifier: South African Football Sets A New Record

2026 World Cup Qualifier: South African Football Sets A New Record

Sampson Adedeji

South African football has achieved a remarkable milestone during the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers, setting a unique record in Group C of the competition, BSNSports.com.ng reports

Out of the 30 matches scheduled in the group, an astonishing 15 have been played on South African soil a testament to the country’s growing football infrastructure and hospitality.

Both Zimbabwe and Lesotho, whose home stadiums failed to meet FIFA’s hosting requirements, opted to play their home fixtures in South Africa. This decision turned the Rainbow Nation into the unofficial hub of Group C action.

Even more remarkable is the fact that all six teams in the group Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Benin Republic, South Africa, and Rwanda have their first-choice goalkeepers currently playing in the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL).

This development highlights the PSL’s strength and influence across the continent, reinforcing its status as one of Africa’s most competitive and attractive domestic leagues.

With the qualifiers heating up, South Africa continues to play a central role both on and off the pitch serving not only as a host nation but also as a key contributor to African football’s ongoing growth and professional excellence.