As the 2026 World Cup qualifying series ends in the African zone on Tuesday, there are still three automatic spots up for grabs.
This means that so far, six countries have confirmed their places at next year’s tournament.
They are: Ghana, Tunisia, Morocco, Cape Verde, Algeria and Egypt.
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 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).
Although Africa has nine automatic slots at the 2026 World Cup, the four best runners-up will qualify for the playoffs.
The winner of a mini tournament will play countries from Asia, South America, Oceania, or CONCACAF for one spot at the tournament.
