The 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers have reached an exciting midpoint, with several teams making strong bids for a spot in the tournament. On March 25, 2025, Tunisia secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Malawi, tightening their grip at the top of Group H.
This win is significant, showing Tunisia's prowess on the field as they continue their quest to secure one of the places available for African nations at the World Cup set to take place in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. With this victory, they keep their momentum going, and hopes high among fans of the Carthage Eagles.
Meanwhile, on Match Day 6, which officially commenced on March 23, 2025, the competition heated up as teams across Africa battled for valuable points. The qualifiers allow nations to display their skills and determination as they work to earn a coveted place in the global tournament.
In another thrilling match, Sudan managed to hold off Senegal in a goalless draw on March 22, 2025. This performance marked a remarkable achievement for the Falcons of Jediane, who are navigating through a challenging civil war back home that has resulted in over 150,000 lives lost and over 12 million displaced people.
Despite this turmoil, Sudan sits atop Group B, a position that reflects both their resilience and the quality of their play. They were well-drilled and fully committed throughout the match, successfully neutralizing Senegal's attacking threats and frustrating star player Sadio Mané. As a result, the Falcons remain one point ahead of the Democratic Republic of Congo, setting the stage for an exciting derby against neighbors South Sudan on March 25, 2025.
Kwesi Appiah, the team's head coach, has played a pivotal role in Sudan's success, having previously coached Ghana to World Cup qualification in 2014. He faces ongoing tensions with the Sudanese federation over unpaid wages, but if he can lead his team to their first World Cup, he would bolster his candidacy for CAF's Coach of the Year award.
Meanwhile, Senegal, who maintain an undefeated streak in the qualifiers, have much riding on their upcoming clash with Togo, where a win would reinstate them in the race for the top of the table. Newly appointed head coach Pape Thiaw is under pressure to deliver a strong performance after taking the reins from long-time coach Aliou Cisse last year.
In the broader context of the qualifiers, several other significant matches are unfolding. Libya, led by former Senegal coach Aliou Cisse, recently experienced a disappointment as they drew 1-1 with Angola after taking the lead, with Fredy equalizing in stoppage time. They’re preparing to face Cameroon, who has faced their share of turmoil having drawn 0-0 with Eswatini, further complicating the situation for their coach, Marc Brys, amid travel disruption and logistical chaos.
Cameroon, under the watchful eye of Samuel Eto'o—a point of contention for many fans due to past issues—will need to find their footing quickly. Competing against rivals like Cape Verde poses a significant test, as they aim to reclaim their position as dominant players in African football.
On the other hand, Algeria is also making headlines, solidifying their position in Group G following a decisive 3-1 victory over Botswana. The match was remarkable for Riyad Mahrez, who attained his 100th cap, marking 11 years since his debut. His significant milestone was celebrated by his former coach Vahid Halilhodzic, who praised his skills and leadership qualities, noting, "He has a pretty exceptional technical quality." Mahrez's presence will be invaluable as they prepare for an upcoming match against Mozambique.
A stunning turn of events also unfolds in Gabon, where star player Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who has yet to debut in World Cup play, sees his hope renewed as his team leads Group F after defeating Seychelles and Kenya in recent matches. Gabon's late surge positions them well in the group, with the looming possibility of Aubameyang reaching the World Cup stage next year.
Back in West Africa, Ghana is rebounding after lackluster performances in past tournaments. The Black Stars, under Otto Addo, recently achieved a remarkable 5-0 victory against Chad— a much-needed triumph that was their largest since 2015. This win may signify a turning point as they aim to restore their reputation in the footballing world.
Similarly, Nigeria's fortunes are improving under new coach Eric Chelle, who oversaw a much-needed victory against Rwanda, thanks to a brace from Victor Osimhen. However, they still trail South Africa in their group and will need to maintain this momentum in their next matches.
The latest round of qualifiers presents a thrilling tableau of highs and lows, showcasing the passion and determination of African teams as they vie for a place in the global tournament. With key matches lined up, fans are eagerly anticipating the outcomes, hoping for thrilling performances and unexpected results that may define their nations’ fates in the journey to the World Cup.
