2026 World Cup: Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal battle for five spots, four qualifiers confirmed

Four of the nine slots available to Africa for the 2026 World Cup have been taken.

Ahead of the final round of qualifying fixtures, four North African nations are already confirmed to play in next year’s tournament.

They are Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria.

In Group B, qualification is in Senegal’s hands. The Teranga Lions have 21 points ahead of their game at home against Mauritania on Tuesday. Victory will guarantee a place in the finals.

Group C remains very open with Benin Republic, South Africa and Nigeria all in with a chance. Benin need a win or draw against Nigeria, South Africa must defeat Rwanda and Nigeria need not just victory against Benin, but for South Africa to drop points.

In Group D, Cape Verde Islands, who have 20 points, missed the chance to book their place when they played a 3-3 draw with Libya on Wednesday. But they will have another opportunity if they beat Eswatini at home on Monday. It could also be confirmed regardless if Cameroon draw or lose.

In Group F, Ivory Coast (23) head into Tuesday’s final game at home to Kenya (12) knowing a victory will send them to the World Cup. Any shock slipup opens the door for Gabon (22), who can then top the group if they win at home to Burundi (10).

Ghana are all but through as Group I winners, thanks to a 5-0 win over the Central African Republic. The Black Stars have 22 points, three more than Madagascar. But Ghana need a point at home to Comoros on Sunday, though they are pretty much there as their goal difference is eight better than that of Madagascar.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More