As the 2026 World Cup approaches in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, the African qualifiers enter their crucial phase with only three matches remaining to determine the nine teams that will represent the continent. After Morocco and Tunisia have already secured their qualification, other African nations are fiercely competing to earn their coveted spot.
Morocco, undefeated, continues to dominate with control, recently achieving a 2-0 victory in Zambia thanks to early goals, while Tunisia sealed its qualification dramatically with a last-second goal against Equatorial Guinea. Egypt and South Africa are also in a favorable position but must win their upcoming matches to secure their places. In contrast, major continental teams like Nigeria, Senegal, and Cameroon face surprising difficulties, adding intense drama to the final stretch.
The African qualification system is based on nine groups of six teams each, with the winner of each group qualifying directly. A playoff tournament will be held among the best runners-up to allow the ninth African team to try their chance in intercontinental playoffs. This format promises decisive and high-pressure confrontations where every point will count in these last matches scheduled from September to October 2025.
Beyond the qualifications themselves, African football is in the spotlight, with growing enthusiasm around the continent and remarkable performances such as Senegal’s historic friendly win against England and the rise of Moroccan clubs on the global stage. This positive momentum strengthens hopes of seeing a record number of African teams shine on the world stage in 2026, marking a major milestone in the history of African football.