The race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Africa took another dramatic turn as Cape Verde edged closer to making history by qualifying for the tournament for the very first time. The Blue Sharks shocked continental giants Cameroon with a 1-0 victory in Praia, a result that now puts them just one win away from booking their ticket to Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Dalion Livramento was the hero of the night, scoring a sensational solo goal in the 54th minute after overpowering Carlos Baleba, running through the Cameroonian defense, and calmly finishing past goalkeeper Andre Onana. The result sparked wild celebrations, with fans invading the pitch, waving flags, and lighting flares in joyous scenes that highlighted the significance of the win for a nation of fewer than 600,000 people. Cape Verde, who have previously impressed at the Africa Cup of Nations, now need only three points from their final two matches against Libya and Eswatini to achieve what once seemed impossible – a place on football’s biggest stage.
Elsewhere across the continent, the qualifiers delivered more high-stakes drama. Senegal pulled off a stunning comeback in Kinshasa after falling 2-0 behind against DR Congo. Goals from Cedric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa had given the Leopards a commanding lead, but the Teranga Lions showed their champion’s spirit. Pape Gueye reduced the deficit, Nicolas Jackson equalized, and Tottenham midfielder Pape Matar Sarr sealed a famous 3-2 win with a late strike. The victory pushed Senegal to the top of Group B, reinforcing their status as one of Africa’s strongest contenders for the 2026 finals. DR Congo, who last played at a World Cup in 1974 when they were known as Zaire, saw their hopes dented, though they remain in the fight for qualification.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s qualification hopes took a major blow after a 1-1 draw against South Africa in Bloemfontein. The Super Eagles desperately needed a win to stay alive in Group C but were forced to settle for a point after an own goal by William Troost-Ekong and a controversial equalizer from Calvin Bassey. Despite dominating much of the second half, Nigeria lacked the cutting edge in front of goal and now sit six points behind group leaders South Africa. The situation looks grim for the three-time African champions, though a potential reprieve could come if South Africa are sanctioned for fielding an ineligible player earlier in the qualifiers.
In other fixtures, Ivory Coast maintained their narrow lead over Gabon in Group F after a goalless draw away to the Panthers. The Elephants, who last appeared at the World Cup in 2014, came close to defeat late on but were saved when Shavy Babicka’s strike hit the post in the 87th minute. Egypt also faltered in their bid to secure early qualification, playing out a goalless draw in Burkina Faso when a win would have sealed their place in the finals with games to spare.
With only the group winners guaranteed automatic spots, the competition has become more intense as nations battle for supremacy. The four best second-placed teams will head into the playoffs for a chance to join Morocco and Tunisia, who have already confirmed their places at the tournament. As the final rounds approach, Cape Verde’s historic journey, Senegal’s resilience, Nigeria’s struggles, and Egypt’s missed opportunity are shaping the narrative of what promises to be one of the most thrilling African qualifying campaigns in World Cup history.
Leave a comment