Themba Zwane: Bafana have brought joy to South Africa

South Africa sealed their place at the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico next year with a 3-0 victory over Rwanda at the Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday - as Nigeria overcame Benin 4-0.

Thalente Mbatha, Oswin Appollis and Evidence Makgopa all on target in a game dominated by a Bafana team desperate to make up for Friday's draw with Zimbabwe that left qualification out of their hands.

Speaking after the game, a injury sidelined Zwane saluted the team and the joy they have brought to South Africa, with their first appearance at a World Cup since appearing as hosts in 2010.

He said on SuperSport: "It's happiness overall. It's always good to see the country so happy. The boys did their job very well and we are so happy as a country.

"The message to South Africans is that the guys are doing well, obviously we want to see them happy, and we will do our best as a team and make sure that we make them happy all the time."

Before heading off to North America, Bafana will participate in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations that kicks off in December.