On March 25, 2025, the World Cup 2026 qualifiers for African teams showcased some thrilling matches, particularly in Group B, where the outcomes significantly influenced the standings. Senegal, RD Congo, and Sudan were all key players in a fiercely competitive group that now sees a tight race for qualification.
In a pivotal encounter, Senegal managed to secure a convincing 2-0 victory against Togo at the Stade Abdoulaye Wade in Diamniadio, underlining their status as reigning African champions. The match marked an essential step forward for the Lions of Teranga, who are eager to reclaim their spot at the world stage following their recent triumph at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Pape Matar Sarr opened the scoring with a well-taken goal, expertly set up by Habib Diallo. His finish demonstrated both skill and poise, giving Senegal an early lead. The match continued with Senegal dominating possession yet struggling to convert chances into goals. Eventually, Moussa Niakhate sealed the win with a header, connecting beautifully with a free-kick taken by Lamine Camara.
On the same day, the RD Congo faced Mauritania in what was anticipated to be a tight affair, given both teams' standings. Competing at the Municipal Stadium in Nouadhibou, the Congolese team delivered a solid performance with a 2-0 victory. Coach Sébastien Desabre emphasized the need for focus and humility ahead of the match, stating, “C’est à l’extérieur. On doit être capable de gérer tous les événements qui peuvent se présenter devant nous en toute humilité, avec beaucoup de concentration...” (It’s away. We have to be able to handle all events that may arise in all humility, with much concentration).
Charles Pickel was the one to strike first, netting a goal just four minutes into the match. Followed by Fiston Mayele’s insurance goal in the 81st minute, this victory lifted RD Congo to the top of Group B with 13 points after six match days, reaffirming their objective: qualification for the World Cup.
Meanwhile, the Sudanese team, despite their leading position prior to the matches, faced a disappointing result against South Sudan, ending the game in a 1-1 draw. Mohamed Eisa scored for Sudan, giving hope until Omot Okuer equalized for South Sudan with a spectacular bicycle kick just before the final whistle. This draw left Sudan with only two points from their last two games, creating a precarious situation as they now face formidable opponents in their quest for the World Cup.
The implications of these matches in Group B are significant as they showcase the tight competition among the top teams. After six match days, Sudan finds themselves in a challenging position, with Senegal and RD Congo in hot pursuit. As the qualifiers progress, each match will be critical; every point gained could be the difference between qualification and elimination from the race to the World Cup.
In the aftermath of these intense matches, the excitement and anticipation for the next rounds continue to mount. Teams like Mauritania, who are vying to reverse their fortunes, find themselves in do-or-die situations as they strive to keep their hopes alive in this intensely competitive qualifier.
As the next match dates approach, all eyes will be on these contestants, watching to see who emerges victorious in this thrilling pursuit of a coveted place in the World Cup 2026.
