Group A: Egypt’s March to Qualification
Egypt stands poised to secure their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, holding a commanding five-point lead over Burkina Faso in Group A. Their path to qualification seems clear, needing only two victories in their upcoming matches against Ethiopia and Burkina Faso to mathematically guarantee their place in the tournament. The Pharaohs’ dominance in the group reflects their consistent performance and tactical prowess, positioning them as strong contenders on the global stage. While Burkina Faso mathematically retains a chance, their hopes are fading fast, requiring a near-perfect run and a significant slip-up by Egypt to turn the tables. The remaining fixtures hold little significance for Djibouti, who are mathematically eliminated from contention.
Group B: A Tantalizing Three-Horse Race
Group B presents a dramatic three-way battle for qualification, with DR Congo, Senegal, and Sudan separated by a single point. This tight contest promises a thrilling climax, with each team harbouring realistic hopes of securing the coveted World Cup spot. Senegal, a traditional African powerhouse, face a crucial doubleheader against Sudan and DR Congo, which could determine their fate. Sudan, remarkably, are in contention for their first-ever World Cup appearance despite the ongoing internal conflict that has destabilized the nation. Their resilience and determination on the field offer a powerful narrative of hope amidst adversity. The outcome of this group is far from certain, with each match potentially serving as a turning point in this captivating three-way tussle.
Group C: Nigeria’s World Cup Dreams on the Brink
Nigeria, a perennial African football giant, finds themselves in a precarious position in Group C, trailing leaders South Africa by six points. Their World Cup aspirations hang precariously, requiring victories in their remaining matches against Rwanda and South Africa to keep their hopes alive. The Super Eagles face an uphill battle, needing not only to win their own games but also relying on other results to go their way. An ongoing investigation into South Africa’s alleged use of an ineligible player adds another layer of complexity, with a potential points deduction possibly reshuffling the standings. Nigeria’s fate rests on a knife’s edge, with their upcoming matches carrying immense weight and consequence.
Group D: Cape Verde’s Historic Quest and Cameroon’s Fightback
Group D showcases a compelling duel between Cape Verde and Cameroon, with the former holding a slender one-point lead. Cape Verde, aiming for their first-ever World Cup qualification, face a defining moment in their footballing history. Their crucial matches against Cameroon and Mauritius will determine whether they can achieve this historic feat. Cameroon, a five-time World Cup participant, are determined to reclaim their position at the top of the group and secure their place in the 2026 tournament. While Libya and Angola mathematically remain in contention, their chances are slim, requiring a combination of unlikely outcomes to alter the course of the group.
Group E: Morocco’s Impeccable Run Towards History
Morocco’s dominance in Group E has been nothing short of spectacular, boasting a flawless record of five wins in five matches. The Atlas Lions are on the verge of becoming the first African nation to officially qualify for the 2026 World Cup, a testament to their exceptional form and tactical brilliance. Their upcoming matches against Niger and Zambia present opportunities to solidify their position and etch their names in African football history. While other teams in the group, such as Tanzania and Congo-Brazzaville, continue their campaign, their focus has shifted to securing a respectable finish, with Morocco’s qualification seemingly inevitable.
Group F: Ivory Coast and Gabon’s Resurgence and Rivalry
Group F showcases a tight contest between two resurgent teams, Ivory Coast and Gabon, separated by a single point. The upcoming clash between these two sides promises to be a pivotal moment in the group, with the victor gaining a significant advantage in the race for qualification. Ivory Coast, looking to recapture their past glory, will rely on their experience and talent to navigate the challenges ahead. Gabon, showcasing a renewed vigour, are determined to challenge the established order and secure their place in the World Cup. The remaining matches will be fiercely contested, with both teams vying for supremacy and the opportunity to represent their nation on the global stage.
Group G: Algeria’s Steady Progress Towards Qualification
Algeria holds a comfortable three-point lead in Group G, placing them firmly on track for World Cup qualification. While their position appears strong, they cannot afford complacency, knowing that any slip-up could jeopardize their chances. Their upcoming matches against Botswana and Guinea will test their resolve and ability to perform under pressure. Mozambique, trailing Algeria by three points, remain in contention but face a challenging task, requiring victories in their remaining matches and hoping for Algeria to falter. The remaining fixtures will determine whether Algeria can maintain their composure and secure their place in the 2026 World Cup.
Group H: Tunisia’s Dominant Stride Towards Qualification
Tunisia’s commanding four-point lead in Group H positions them as clear favorites to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Their upcoming matches against Liberia and Equatorial Guinea provide opportunities to solidify their position and book their ticket to the tournament. However, an ongoing appeal by Equatorial Guinea regarding eligibility issues adds a layer of uncertainty, potentially impacting the final standings. While Namibia mathematically retains a chance, their hopes are slim, requiring a combination of unlikely results to overturn Tunisia’s advantage. Tunisia’s focus remains on securing the necessary points to avoid any complications arising from the ongoing appeal.
Group I: Ghana’s Quest for Redemption and World Cup Return
Ghana, seeking redemption after their disappointing AFCON 2025 campaign, holds a three-point lead in Group I and aims to secure their return to the World Cup. Their upcoming matches against Chad and Comoros present crucial opportunities to solidify their position and book their qualification. Comoros, trailing Ghana by three points, still harbour hopes of causing an upset and securing a historic World Cup berth. Mali, further behind in the standings, face an uphill battle, requiring a series of victories and favourable results to revive their qualification hopes.
