Ivory Coast, Senegal, and South Africa have secured the last automatic African spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
They join Algeria, Cape Verde, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia in qualifying for the tournament hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.
Senegal overwhelmed Mauritania 4-0 with goals from Sadio Mané, Iliman Ndiaye, and Habib Diallo.
Senegal finished Group B with 24 points, edging out DR Congo, who defeated Sudan 1-0 to stay in playoff contention.
Ivory Coast secured a 3-0 victory over Kenya in Abidjan. Franck Kessié, Yan Diomande, and Amad Diallo scored as Ivory Coast topped their group with 26 points, narrowly ahead of Gabon.
South Africa qualified for their fourth World Cup after defeating Rwanda 3-0 in Mbombela.
Goals from Thalente Mbatha, Oswin Appollis, and Evidence Makgopa sealed their top spot in Group C.
Coach Hugo Broos expressed joy over South Africa’s qualification, calling it the reward for years of hard work.
Player of the Match Oswin Appollis shared his excitement and confidence in the team’s performance.
Cameroon, DR Congo, Gabon, and Nigeria remain hopeful through playoffs in Morocco.
The winner advances to intercontinental playoffs for two additional World Cup spots in March 2026.
With the tournament expanding to 48 teams, Africa could send up to 10 nations, marking a historic milestone in global football participation.
