African qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup enters a decisive phase this month, with Egypt and Morocco within touching distance of securing early tickets to the finals in the United States, Mexico and Canada. For Nigeria, however, the situation is far more delicate as the Super Eagles battle to avoid the unthinkable of back-to-back failures to reach football’s biggest stage.
The qualification marathon, which began in November 2023 and runs until October this year, now has just four rounds left. Only the winners of each of the nine groups will qualify directly, while the four best second-placed teams will enter a playoff for a chance to reach the tournament via the intercontinental route.
Several African heavyweights, alongside emerging challengers, are poised to shape the continent’s representation at the expanded 48-team finals. Here is a breakdown of the nine groups and the key fixtures between September 3 and 9.
Group A – Egypt eye early qualification
Egypt, the record seven-time African champions, hold a commanding five-point lead over Burkina Faso. Mohamed Salah and his teammates face Ethiopia first before a pivotal clash against the Stallions. Should the Pharaohs take maximum points, they will confirm their third ever World Cup appearance with two matches to spare.
Group B – Three-way battle between DR Congo, Senegal and Sudan
Just a single point separates the top three sides. Senegal host Sudan in a high-stakes showdown before traveling to Kinshasa to meet DR Congo. Meanwhile, Kwesi Appiah’s Sudanese side, still unbeaten despite the ongoing conflict at home, face a testing trip to Togo. Any slip could swing the advantage decisively in this tightly contested group.
Group C – Nigeria under pressure as South Africa wait on FIFA ruling
South Africa currently top the table, but FIFA has yet to decide whether their March victory over Lesotho will be overturned due to an ineligible player. Nigeria, sitting fourth, cannot afford more dropped points. Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles host Rwanda in Uyo before a blockbuster clash with Bafana Bafana in Bloemfontein. Both Rwanda and Benin remain in the running, making this group one of the most unpredictable.
Group D – Cape Verde and Cameroon set for decisive meeting
Cape Verde hold a one-point lead and welcome Cameroon to Praia in what could be a defining encounter. The Indomitable Lions, with eight World Cup appearances to their name, face the prospect of missing out if they stumble. Libya and Angola are also lurking and ready to take advantage.
Group E – Morocco closing in on qualification
After becoming Africa’s first World Cup semi-finalists in Qatar 2022, Morocco are poised to be the first to qualify for 2026. Walid Regragui’s men have won all five of their matches. If Tanzania fail to beat Congo-Brazzaville, the Atlas Lions can secure their place with victory against Niger. Even if the East Africans keep the race alive, Morocco’s trip to Zambia provides another chance to clinch qualification.
Group F – Ivory Coast and Gabon neck and neck
Ivory Coast, unbeaten and yet to concede, sit one point above Gabon. The Panthers first meet Seychelles before a crunch home game against the Elephants in Franceville. That encounter could decide who takes control of the group heading into the final rounds.
Group G – Algeria looking strong but Mozambique in pursuit
Algeria lead Mozambique by three points and have a superior goal difference. The Desert Foxes play Botswana at home before traveling to Guinea, while Mozambique face Uganda and then host Botswana. With the race for a playoff spot still alive, every result matters.
Group H – Tunisia in control but appeal could change dynamics
Tunisia are four points clear and remain unbeaten without conceding. They face Liberia and Equatorial Guinea, while Namibia chase from behind with games against Malawi and Sao Tome e Principe. However, the group could be shaken if Equatorial Guinea succeed in appealing FIFA’s decision to overturn two of their victories.
Group I – Ghana closing in as Mali risk elimination
Ghana have built a three-point lead and face bottom-placed Chad before a home tie against Mali. Comoros remain surprise contenders, while Mali must win to keep their campaign alive. The Black Stars could seal qualification in Accra, a chance to quickly move past the disappointment of missing the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Bigger Picture
As things stand, Egypt and Morocco could mathematically seal qualification this month, while Cape Verde, Tunisia and Ghana may also be within reach of early celebrations. For Nigeria, though, the road is fraught with pressure. Failure to beat Rwanda or South Africa could leave the Super Eagles staring at elimination long before the final matchday.
African fans will watch this round with anticipation, knowing that the dream of playing on the world’s grandest stage is on the line.
