Egypt and Morocco are on the brink of securing their places at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as Africa’s qualifying campaign enters a decisive stage during the September international window (3–9 September 2025). With four rounds of matches left in the extended qualifiers that began in November 2023, tension is mounting across the continent as nine automatic qualification spots remain up for grabs, alongside the chance for the best four runners-up to fight for an intercontinental play-off berth.
Egypt in Command of Group A
Egypt, record seven-time African champions, are leading Group A and remain in control of their destiny. Holding a five-point lead over Burkina Faso, the Pharaohs can confirm qualification if they secure maximum points against Ethiopia and Burkina Faso. This achievement would see Egypt qualify for only their third World Cup in history, further cementing their status as one of the continent’s most successful footballing nations. With star man Mohamed Salah spearheading their attack, anticipation is building that Egypt will once again represent Africa on the world stage.
Morocco Poised for Another World Cup
Morocco, who became the first African nation to reach a FIFA World Cup semi-final at Qatar 2022, are also in a strong position to secure qualification. The Atlas Lions are unbeaten in Group E and boast a perfect record, winning all five of their games so far. A win over Niger this month could guarantee their place at the finals, particularly if Tanzania fail to beat Congo-Brazzaville. Walid Regragui’s side, powered by talent from top European leagues, are aiming to be the first African nation to officially book their ticket to the United States, Mexico, and Canada in 2026.
Nigeria Struggling in Group C
While some African giants are cruising, Nigeria face an uphill battle. The Super Eagles, who missed the 2022 World Cup, are dangerously close to early elimination. Currently sitting fourth in Group C, Nigeria must secure maximum points in their upcoming matches against Rwanda and South Africa to revive their hopes. FIFA is also yet to deliver a verdict on South Africa’s use of an ineligible player in their win over Lesotho earlier this year, a ruling that could dramatically reshape the standings. Failure to qualify would mark back-to-back absences for Nigeria from football’s biggest stage, a devastating blow for one of Africa’s most celebrated teams.
Emerging Nations Making Headlines
Several lesser-known teams are also making history in their World Cup qualifying campaigns. Sudan, despite ongoing civil conflict at home, remain in contention for a first-ever World Cup appearance, with Kwesi Appiah’s men proving resilient on the pitch. Cape Verde, known as the Blue Sharks, lead Group D ahead of African giants Cameroon, and their clash in Praia could determine whether the island nation qualifies for its maiden World Cup finals.
Comoros, another small island nation, and Rwanda are also still in the race, underlining the increasing competitiveness and unpredictability of African football. For nations like these, World Cup qualification would not only be a sporting triumph but also a powerful symbol of national pride and unity.
Battles in Other Groups
In Group B, defending African champions Senegal are in a three-way fight with DR Congo and Sudan, with just one point separating the sides. The Teranga Lions face defining matches against Sudan and DR Congo that could decide the group’s outcome. In Group F, Ivory Coast and Gabon are locked in a tight race. The Elephants, unbeaten and yet to concede a goal, sit narrowly ahead, but Denis Bouanga’s in-form Gabon are threatening to overtake them. Their head-to-head clash in Franceville is already being billed as a potential decider.
The Bigger Picture
Africa’s qualifying process for the 2026 World Cup, which has been expanded to 48 teams globally, will deliver nine direct representatives from the continent, the most in history. Four additional teams will also have a chance to qualify via play-offs, giving African football unprecedented opportunities to shine on the global stage.
The September fixtures are therefore critical not just for traditional powerhouses like Egypt, Morocco, Senegal, and Nigeria, but also for underdogs such as Cape Verde, Sudan, and Comoros who dream of making history. As the road to 2026 intensifies, the next week of fixtures could determine the shape of Africa’s representation at the tournament, setting the stage for what promises to be the continent’s most exciting World Cup yet.
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