Former Nigeria international Daniel Akpeyi believes Germany’s emphatic 7-1 victory over Curaçao could improve South Africa’s chances of reaching the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The former Super Eagles goalkeeper says the heavy defeat suffered by Curaçao in Group E may ultimately work in favour of Bafana Bafana as they chase a historic place in the round of 32.
Expanded World Cup Creates New Opportunities
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first edition to feature 48 teams, increasing the number of nations that can advance beyond the group stage.
Under the new format, the top two teams in each group automatically qualify for the knockout rounds, while the eight best third-placed teams also progress.
The expanded structure means only 16 teams will be eliminated after the group phase, giving countries like South Africa a greater opportunity to reach the latter stages of the tournament.
South Africa Eye Historic Qualification
Bafana Bafana, who topped a World Cup qualifying group that included Nigeria’s Super Eagles, remain in contention to advance from Group A.
South Africa could move into at least third place in the standings if they defeat the Czech Republic on June 18, significantly improving their hopes of qualifying for the round of 32.
The country’s best World Cup performances came in 1998, 2002, and 2010, but on each occasion they were eliminated during the group stage.
The current squad is now aiming to make history by becoming the first South African team to reach the knockout rounds of the FIFA World Cup.
Why Germany’s Victory Matters
Germany’s dominant victory over Curaçao has left the Caribbean side with a goal difference of minus six.
According to Akpeyi, that heavy defeat could become an important factor in determining the rankings of the best third-placed teams.
Even if Curaçao recover in their remaining matches, overturning such a significant goal difference could prove extremely difficult.
As a result, South Africa may have an advantage in the race for one of the available knockout-stage places should they finish third in their group.
Akpeyi’s Assessment
Speaking on SuperSport, the former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper praised Germany’s efficiency in front of goal and highlighted how the result could benefit Bafana Bafana.
“Looking at the number of attempts Germany had before scoring those goals, you can see how effective they were,” Akpeyi said.
“Fortunately for them, they were able to get seven from those chances, which is a huge win for them.”
He added:
“Someone was telling me earlier that this result is good for Bafana Bafana because they can qualify as the best third-placed team.”
What Lies Ahead for South Africa
Despite the favourable circumstances, South Africa still have plenty of work to do.
Bafana Bafana must first secure positive results in their remaining group matches and improve their position in the standings before thinking about possible qualification scenarios.
However, Germany’s convincing victory has undoubtedly created a situation that could benefit Hugo Broos’ side if the race for the best third-placed teams becomes extremely tight.
Analysis
Daniel Akpeyi’s observation highlights how goal difference could become a decisive factor under the expanded World Cup format.
With more teams having a chance to advance, every goal scored and conceded carries greater importance than ever before.
For South Africa, Germany’s 7-1 win over Curaçao may have unexpectedly improved their chances of making history and reaching the knockout stages for the first time.
The challenge now for Bafana Bafana is to capitalise on that opportunity by delivering strong performances in their remaining group fixtures.
