The race to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is reaching a decisive stage as Africa’s top nations prepare for Matchdays 7 and 8 of CAF qualifying (September 3–6, 2025). With direct tickets on the line for the United States, Canada, and Mexico, several heavyweights could secure early passage—or at least tighten their grip—on group leadership.
Morocco, Egypt, and Algeria Closing In
Morocco are the closest to an early qualification party. With a perfect record (12 points from four games in a five-team group), the Atlas Lions need just two more wins—against Niger and Tanzania—to virtually book their ticket. Backed by Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Díaz, their dominance looks untouchable.
Egypt, powered by Mohamed Salah’s six goals, lead Group A by five points and face Ethiopia and Sierra Leone. If results go their way, the Pharaohs could confirm their spot with two games to spare.
Algeria, rejuvenated after Mohamed Amoura’s hat-trick heroics, sit three points clear in Group G. Wins over Botswana and Mozambique could seal the Desert Foxes’ return to the global stage. Riyad Mahrez and company know the chance is theirs to lose.
Strong Contenders Still Battling
Ivory Coast (Group F) remain in control but face a crunch clash with Gabon that could define their path. Cape Verde, the smallest nation in contention, are leading Group D ahead of Cameroon and have a golden chance to shock Africa with back-to-back wins over Mauritius and Cameroon.
Ghana, Tunisia, and South Africa also remain in the hunt but have less breathing space. Ghana’s inconsistency and South Africa’s potential points deduction complicate their scenarios, though both could remain in pole position with strong September results.
What’s at Stake
Only group winners qualify directly, while the four best runners-up advance to a playoff for Africa’s spot in the intercontinental playoff. That means every goal and point in September could shape the continent’s representation at the World Cup.
Key Fixtures to Watch (Sept 3–6, 2025)
- Niger vs Morocco
- Ethiopia vs Egypt
- Ivory Coast vs Burundi
- Mozambique vs Algeria
- Cameroon vs Cape Verde
- Nigeria vs South Africa
Coach’s View
“We know two wins would put us within touching distance of history,” said Egypt coach Rui Vitória. “The players are motivated, and Salah’s leadership has been crucial. But we cannot afford complacency—African qualifiers are unforgiving.”
Standings (Leaders)
- Group A: Egypt (10 pts)
- Group C: South Africa (8 pts*)
- Group D: Cape Verde (13 pts)
- Group E: Morocco (12 pts)
- Group F: Ivory Coast (10 pts)
- Group G: Algeria (9 pts)
- Group H: Tunisia (10 pts)
- Group I: Ghana (9 pts)
*Pending possible points deduction.
👉 September’s qualifiers could see Morocco, Egypt, and Algeria pop the champagne early, while the rest of Africa’s giants dig in for the final sprint. One thing is certain—the continent’s road to 2026 is heating up fast.