By Algeria, Egypt, and Morocco have moved closer to securing a place at the 2026 World Cup after impressive home victories on Tuesday. Meanwhile, South Africa’s qualification hopes could be in jeopardy after reports emerged that they fielded an ineligible player.
South Africa extended their lead in Group C with a 2-0 away win over Benin. However, they could face a points deduction after midfielder Teboho Mokoena was revealed to have played in their previous match against Lesotho despite being suspended. Coach Hugo Broos declined to comment on the situation, saying, “It is something that will be sorted over the next week.”
Nigeria missed a chance to close the gap, drawing 1-1 with Zimbabwe after conceding a stoppage-time equalizer. Victor Osimhen had given the Super Eagles the lead in Uyo before English-born Tawanda Chirewa stunned the home crowd. Nigeria now sits six points behind South Africa with four matches left.
Algeria dominated Mozambique with a 5-1 win, thanks to a hat trick from Mohamed Amoura, putting them three points ahead in Group G. Egypt edged Sierra Leone 1-0 in Cairo with a first-half goal from Zizo, while Morocco maintained their perfect record with a 2-0 win over Tanzania, with goals from Nayef Aguerd and Brahim Diaz.
In other matches, Cape Verde pulled off a surprise 2-1 away win over Angola, taking the top spot in Group D. Cameroon followed closely behind with a 3-1 win over Libya, led by captain Vincent Aboubakar’s brace. The DR Congo secured a 2-0 victory against Mauritania to top Group B, overtaking Senegal, who defeated Togo 2-0.
Africa’s World Cup qualifiers will continue in September, with the final group matches concluding in October. The nine group winners will qualify directly, while the four best runners-up will compete for an additional spot in the tournament.
