Morocco book first African ticket to 2026 World Cup, Egypt closing in, Senegal chase DR Congo
Morocco have become the first African team to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after sweeping aside Niger 5-0 in Rabat on Friday night.
The Atlas Lions, who stunned the world by reaching the semi-finals in Qatar in 2022, sealed their passage with two games to spare after nearest challengers Tanzania were held 1-1 away to Congo-Brazzaville earlier in the day.
Niger’s hopes collapsed when Abdoul-Latif Goumey was dismissed midway through the first half. Morocco quickly took control, with Ismael Saibari striking twice before the interval, Ayoub El Kaabi adding a third soon after the restart, and substitutes Hamza Igamane and Azzedine Ounahi completing the demolition.
The night was memorable not only for qualification but also because it marked the first game at the renovated Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, a venue set to host the Africa Cup of Nations final next January and feature prominently at the 2030 World Cup, which Morocco will co-host.
Egypt edges closer
Elsewhere, Egypt tightened their grip on Group A thanks to a 2-0 victory over Ethiopia in Cairo.
Mohamed Salah converted from the spot shortly before half-time, and Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush added a second from another penalty in stoppage time.
The Pharaohs now sit five points clear and can confirm their qualification with a win against Burkina Faso on Tuesday.
Big names stay in contention
Defending African champions Ivory Coast reclaimed top spot in Group F by edging Burundi 1-0, Vakoun Bayo’s early header proving decisive. They are just a point ahead of Gabon, who they face in a crunch clash next week.
In Group B, Senegal remain just behind leaders DR Congo after beating Sudan 2-0 in Dakar, courtesy of goals from captain Kalidou Koulibaly and midfielder Pape Matar Sarr.
DR Congo had earlier extended their advantage with a win of their own, keeping the race finely balanced ahead of Tuesday’s showdown in Kinshasa.
Nigeria, meanwhile, face Rwanda on Saturday in Group C needing victory to keep their fading hopes alive. The Super Eagles trail leaders South Africa by nine points and are under pressure to close the gap with only three rounds left.
The road ahead
Eight more group winners will join Morocco at the finals, while the four best runners-up will enter a play-off for a chance to reach the intercontinental play-offs.
With heavyweight clashes on the horizon, the battle for Africa’s places at the expanded 2026 World Cup is just heating up.