After today’s matches, the nine African teams that will take part in the upcoming World Cup have officially been confirmed.
SOUTH AFRICA ANSWERS ON THE FIELD
In the drama-filled Group C, Nigeria defeated Benin 4–0 thanks to a hat-trick from Victor Osimhen. Benin, who had been leading the group before the match, dropped to third place after this heavy defeat. However, Nigeria’s win was still not enough to secure first place, as South Africa held Rwanda to a 3–3 draw. Despite being docked points earlier in the qualifiers, South Africa still managed to top the group.
AFCON CHAMPIONS HOLD THEIR GROUND
Another fierce battle took place in Group F between Ivory Coast and Gabon. Although Gabon beat Burundi 2–0, they couldn’t overtake Ivory Coast, who defeated Kenya 3–0 to retain their lead. Meanwhile, The Gambia recorded a stunning 7–0 victory over Seychelles in the group’s final match.
SENEGAL SECURES WORLD CUP SPOT
In Group B, the Democratic Republic of Congo hoped to claim first place after a narrow 1–0 win over Sudan. However, Senegal crushed Mauritania 4–0, sealing their qualification and finishing at the top of the group.
ALGERIA AND MOROCCO FINISH STRONG
Morocco continued their perfect run in Group E, beating Congo 1–0 thanks to a goal from Youssef En-Nesyri. They won all their matches in the group stage.
In Group G, Algeria overcame second-placed Uganda 2–1 to confirm their spot. Guinea drew 2–2 with Botswana, while Mozambique beat Somalia 1–0 but still finished third in the group.
ONE LAST SPOT TO BE DECIDED
The nine teams that have secured direct qualification for the World Cup are Egypt, Senegal, South Africa, Cape Verde, Morocco, Ivory Coast, Algeria, Tunisia, and Ghana.
One more team will join them through a playoff among the group runners-up.