In the Africa World Cup Qualifiers, the first eight matchweeks have been completed. With almost every team having played two matches each, the group leaders who will qualify directly for the tournament are beginning to take shape.
In Group A, things are going well for Egypt, but the North African side has not yet fully secured first place. Although Mohamed Salah’s team defeated Ethiopia 2-0, they were held to a 0-0 draw by their closest rivals, Burkina Faso, in their most recent match.
Egypt still holds a five-point lead over Burkina Faso. Therefore, if Egypt manages to secure just one more victory, they will guarantee direct qualification for the World Cup.
In Group B, the race between Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo is heating up. DR Congo were leading the group earlier, but Senegal overtook them after a 3-2 victory. However, only two points separate the sides, meaning anything can still happen in the last two matches.
SOUTH AFRICA HOLD ON TO THE LEAD, NIGERIA IN TROUBLE
In Group C, one of Africa’s pre-tournament favorites, Nigeria, are on the brink of elimination.
After a 1-1 draw with leaders South Africa, Nigeria missed the chance to close the gap and now needs something close to a miracle to qualify. Meanwhile, Benin are also in a strong position to challenge for the group’s top spot.
CAPE VERDE ON THE VERGE OF THEIR FIRST-EVER WORLD CUP
Cape Verde have been the surprise package of the qualifiers, topping Group D with 19 points.
They recently defeated their closest rivals, Cameroon, 1-0, and now need just one more win from their final two matches to secure group leadership.
Alongside Cameroon, Libya also still has a slim mathematical chance of finishing top.
MOROCCO AND TUNISIA REMAIN UNBEATEN
Last tournament’s semi-finalists Morocco have proven their success was no fluke. With seven wins from seven games, they have opened up an 11-point lead over their nearest challengers in Group E.
In Group H, Tunisia have been equally impressive, winning seven and drawing one of their eight games. They, along with Morocco, have already secured their tickets to the World Cup.
IVORY COAST AND GABON NECK AND NECK
AFCON champions Ivory Coast lead Group F with 20 points from eight matches. However, their 0-0 draw against Gabon denied them the chance to widen the gap, leaving Gabon just one point behind. Any slip-up could see Gabon take the lead.
Group G leaders Algeria, meanwhile, are in a more comfortable position. Although they drew 0-0 with Guinea and missed the chance to confirm qualification, a single win will be enough for them to secure top spot.
Finally, in Group I, Ghana are three points clear at the top. Madagascar and Comoros are chasing, but Ghana remain the favorites to qualify.