Zimbabwe have fired their German coach Michael Nees after a disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign and only two months before they play at the Africa Cup of Nations finals, the Zimbabwe Football Association said.

Nees had been in the job for 14 months, ensuring Zimbabwe's qualification for the Cup of Nations finals in Morocco. He then oversaw the last six matches of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, in which they ended last in their group, having drawn three and lost three.

Overall, he won two of 14 games he was in charge of since being appointed in August last year.

Zimbabwe must now find a new coach in time for the Cup of Nations, where they face Egypt in their opening Group B game in Agadir on 22 December.

The 58-year-old Nees had previous national team jobs in Africa with Seychelles and Rwanda and was technical director in Israel and Kosovo.

Zimbabwe sacked head coach Michael Nees on Wednesday after failing to win any of 10 qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, a national football association statement said.

The Warriors drew five matches and lost five to finish bottom of a group won by neighbours South Africa, who secured a fourth appearance at the global showpiece.

The 58-year-old German won only two of 16 matches since taking charge last year, both against Namibia in 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Zimbabwe have been drawn with Egypt, South Africa and Angola in the first round of the AFCON tournament, which kicks off in Morocco on 21 December.

Nigeria have been forced to cancel two friendly internationals in the United States next month after qualifying for the World Cup African playoffs.

The Nigeria Football Federation agreed to play against Venezuela on 14 November and Colombia on 18 November, either anticipating they would win their World Cup qualifying group or be knocked out of the running for the 2026 finals.

But they finished second to South Africa in Group C and now proceed to the playoffs for the four best runners-up from the African groups.

Nigeria will take on Gabon, and Cameroon will play the Democratic Republic of Congo in Morocco next month, with the winners of the playoff advancing to an intercontinental playoff tournament in March from which the last two World Cup places will be decided.

Our opponents for the African World Cup playoff semifinal are Gabon 🇬🇦.

Win here, reach the final and then the inter-confederation playoffs await.

Save the date 🗓️#SoarSuperEagles | #RoadTo2026 | #FIFAWCQ | #Naija4thewin pic.twitter.com/jJZQH1pJnq

— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) October 15, 2025

Nigeria had fixed to play Venezuela on 14 October in Houston and Colombia at Citi Field in New York four days later.

South Africa have yet to announce any November friendlies, but it is not known if the South African Football Association is aware of the opportunity of potentially standing in for the Nigerians.

Morocco set a new world record of 16 consecutive international victories with Tuesday's 1-0 World Cup qualifying success over Congo in Rabat.

Fenerbahce forward Youssef En-Nesyri scored the only goal of the game for the Atlas Lions, who had already secured World Cup qualification earlier this month with a 5-0 trouncing of Niger.

"Record breaking. Our National Team makes HISTORY with 16 CONSECUTIVE WINS," the Moroccan national team said on its official X account.

"Unstoppable Lions," it added.

The shock 2022 World Cup semifinalists were the first African nation to qualify for next year's tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Morocco – whose run began on 7 June 2024 – had shared the previous mark of 15 victories with Spain, whose winning run began during their Euro 2008 success and ended a year later in June 2009.

That surpassed a previous record set by France, who were European champions at the time, between March 2003 and February 2004.

Bafana Bafana needed a moment, a sign, a portent that this was going to be their night.

And it came as early as the fifth minute when Thalente Mbatha’s blistering effort from outside the box screamed through Rwandan keeper Fiacre Ntwari's inadequate hands and all but burst through the net at the Mbombela Stadium.

With the tone set right there, South Africa coasted to a 3-0 victory in their World Cup qualifier, securing South Africa’s place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with flair and conviction.

Aside from his goal, Mbatha's performance was pivotal in shaping the match’s momentum and outcome.

But it was the strike, that beautiful missile that blew away all the nerves, that will be remembered for years to come.

MATCH OVERVIEW

Bafana Bafana delivered a commanding performance in their final Group C qualifier, brushing aside Rwanda with a 3-0 victory that sealed their return to the global stage. Despite missing key players like Lyle Foster and Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Hugo Broos’ side showed tactical discipline, attacking intent, and defensive solidity.

Mbatha’s inclusion in the starting XI proved decisive. His goal in the 5th minute was not just a technical highlight—it was a psychological blow to Rwanda and a rallying cry for South Africa.

MBATHA’S KEY CONTRIBUTIONS:

Opening Goal: Mbatha received a pass outside the box, created space, and unleashed a powerful strike that beat goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari. Though Ntwari might have done better, the shot’s precision and timing were crucial.

A moment for this rocket from Thalente Mbatha 🇿🇦🚀#WCQ | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/QDodsz8bPD

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

Midfield Control: Mbatha anchored the midfield with composure, linking play between defense and attack. His positioning allowed Bafana to dominate possession and transition quickly.

Tactical Intelligence: He consistently found pockets of space and disrupted Rwanda’s rhythm, forcing turnovers and initiating counter-attacks.

Thalente Mbatha’s performance was emblematic of Bafana Bafana’s resurgence. His early goal and midfield mastery galvanized the team, allowing South Africa to control the match and qualify for the World Cup in style. With Mbatha stepping up in a high-pressure fixture, he’s positioned himself as a key figure in Hugo Broos’ plans for 2026.

PUMPED UP

From the moment they stepped onto the pitch, Bafana Bafana’s players radiated purpose and intensity - determined to make history and reclaim their place on football’s biggest stage. Goalkeeper and captain Ronwen Williams set the tone before kick-off, speaking with conviction and referencing the team’s mission to finally lay the “Mbombela ghost” to rest.

 

Time to right the wrongs and rewrite the script | Ronwen Williams https://t.co/01BMoXMmFA via @YouTube

— Joe Maluleke (@JoMaluleke) October 14, 2025

 

 

Cape Verde and Ghana turned from zeros to heroes among supporters by qualifying this week for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Both Cape Verde, a tiny archipelago of about 550 000 inhabitants with no football titles to boast of, and four-time continental champions Ghana failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

But the disappointment at missing the premier African football tournament has been forgotten as Cape Verdeans and Ghanaians celebrate that they will be part of the expanded 48-team World Cup next year.

The 2026 #FIFAWorldCup picture is starting to come together 📷#SSFootball pic.twitter.com/IHJJmz6Sa8

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

We look at five talking points after Cape Verde and Ghana were joined by Algeria, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa and Tunisia as the nine automatic African qualifiers.

Cameroon, Gabon, Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria have qualified for a November mini-tournament and the winners advance to inter-continental play-offs in March with two World Cup places up for grabs.

CLINICAL LIVRAMENTO

"We have earned respect in Africa, now we must earn respect in the world," said Cape Verde coach Pedro 'Bubista' Brito after Group D winners Cape Verde became the smallest country by land mass to qualify.

The World Cup debutants recovered from a 4-1 hiding in Cameroon to go on a seven-match unbeaten streak, while the challenges of the Indomitable Lions and Angola fell below expectations.

Dailon Livramento, a 24-year-old striker on loan from Verona to Casa Pia, scored four crucial goals, including a brilliant solo match-winner when Cameroon came to the archipelago off the coast of Senegal.

APPOLLIS STARS

South Africa will return to the World Cup next June, 16 years after becoming the first host nation to be eliminated after the first round.

But it was a close call for Bafana Bafana (The Boys), who beat Rwanda in the final round to pip arch rivals Nigeria by one point for top spot after leading by five points in early September.

𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐊𝐄𝐓 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐄𝐃 🇿🇦✈️

Bafana Bafana are on their way to the 2026 #FIFAWorldCup 🎟️⚽ pic.twitter.com/TlX8bAYGri

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

Orlando Pirates winger Oswin Appollis is an emerging South African star. He scored one goal and created the others in the 3-0 victory over the Rwandans.

GHANA RECOVER

Ghana recovered from a shock failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco from December 21 by finishing Group I six points ahead of runners-up Madagascar.

A result that ultimately proved crucial was a 2-1 win away to top seeds Mali in June last year with captain and veteran forward Jordan Ayew snatching an added-time winner.

The highlight of four previous World Cup appearances was reaching the 2010 quarterfinals, and the lowlight was demanding cash be flown to Brazil to prevent a players' boycott during the 2014 edition.

'PERFECT' MOROCCO

Shock 2022 semifinalists Morocco were the only African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup who boasted a 100 per cent record.

The Atlas Lions' was made easier by playing 'away' matches against Congo Brazzaville and Niger in the north African kingdom.

Morocco can call on a number of survivors from the 2022 Qatar campaign, including goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, star Paris Saint-Germain full-back Achraf Hakimi and striker Youssef En-Nesyri.

SEYCHELLES STRUGGLE

Seychelles are the lowest ranked of the 53 African football nations and their weaknesses were repeatedly exposed in 10 qualifiers as they conceded 53 times.

Known as the Pirates, the Indian Ocean island famed for its upscale tourism offerings made a disastrous start, losing 9-0 in the Ivory Coast, a record defeat in an African qualifier.

Apart from struggling to compete at the highest level, the Seychellois had the added handicap of being forced to play home matches abroad as they lack a FIFA-approved stadium.

South Africa coach Hugo Broos celebrated World Cup qualification on Tuesday after the 3-0 win over Rwanda in Nelspruit ensured top place in the group.

Here is what he had to say after the last game in Group C where South Africa finished one point ahead of Nigeria and Benin:

On his feelings after qualifying for the World Cup: “This is really a fantastic evening for everyone. This is not only for the coach. I'm part of it. This is a team who worked for the last three years to have all those performances and nice moments. I can't forget my staff, because they helped me a lot, especially Helman (Mkhalele). You all know that I like him very much. So without him, we couldn't achieve that. But it's not only my staff. It's also the medical staff who work day and night to have the players ready to do big performances, the kit manager, the security manager, the team manager. We are a bunch of people who have only one goal, and that is doing good performances and winning things. And I think this is not work for me alone. I insist also to (highlight) what the players did in the last three years.”

On the players he has picked: “I know you (the media) do not always agree with the choices I made, and I said already that I make them on different criteria than you do. For me, it's important to have a player with quality, first of all, a player with the right mentality. Secondly, a player who can do what I ask him, and till now, I always succeed to do it, even if you thought that this one, or that one, also needed a chance. It's not like this that you build a team. It's not like this that you have performances. You need a plan, and you need to stick with the plan, because you know that it is the right way. And this is what we did in the last three years. This is fantastic, not only for us as coach or player but for all the nation. I heard somebody saying on the pitch after the game, everybody laughed at Bafana Bafana, we were a joke. And now we are there (at the World Cup). We are on a high level, and everybody respects us. And this, again, is not only my work. So at last, I think that this is something that this nation needed -- a different way to look at football, a different way to judge players.”

Caption this 🥳🇿🇦#WCQ | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/nfDP91H5rC

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

On progress for South Africa: “I really hope that in December, at Afcon, we will try to do as well as the last one… hopefully even better. But I hope that with all those high-level tournaments, and certainly next year in America, with the World Cup, that players will have the opportunity to go to higher competitions, because they deserve it first of all, and they need it also. And if we can make that step in the future, you will see that South Africa will be getting even better than they are already now. So again, don't ask me what my emotions are for the moment. I don't have words for that. I hope that the player who was in the squad should go to America. For me, it's a sentimental reason. You all know that I was already in a World Cup at the end of my career as a player, and now I do it again. I think this is the right moment, next year after the World Cup, to stop my career and to go to my family and enjoy the next 20 years with my grandchildren and my children. But first of all, there is some work to do and we will try to do it well.”

On the mood in the Bafana squad: “When you work with a group for three years, you know that group, you know everything about that group. You know how they will react when there is success. You know how they will react when there is no success. And you know last Friday, we got an uppercut (when South Africa were held to a draw by Zimbabwe). And if you asked anyone of us on Friday after the game if we would qualify for the World Cup, I don’t think you’d find many who said yes, because suddenly the situation was not good for us. But then you see on Saturday, we have a little training, recovery training, and you see, immediately the jokes are there again, the laughs are there again. They motivate each other, ‘we didn't lose it, there is still a chance.’ And then, I have to praise myself also. I had to get them to believe that it’s possible. And I think I succeeded in that. But you need a good group for that. I can talk and shout as much as I want, if those guys are not ready to do it, then everything stops. And this is the good work that we had, between me and them, and between them and me. We trust each other, we have confidence in each other, and then you get a game like today that from the first minute that everyone saw … ah, they are going to win today. So, yeah, it's fantastic. And I said it already before that, for a coach, when you feel that you have a group like that, you can only be proud.”

On using young players: “It's normal that I cannot give them a starting position in the team, so you have to bring them on easily and at the right moment. And I think today it was the right moment, even if it was only three minutes or five minutes, but they tasted the atmosphere, and they tasted the group spirit. I wouldn’t have given them a chance if I hadn’t seen at training how they behave themselves. If I can take the example of Shabba (Mduduzi Shabalala), he wanted to prove himself in training and this is what I want you to see. (Ashley) Cupido came. He didn't ask questions. The coach called and he was there. I told him when he arrived (at the camp on the eve of the game), we will see if Lyle (Foster) is ready. If so then you will be on the stands. But if Lyle is not ready, (Evidence) Makgopa will play and you will be on the bench. And he said, ‘No problem. I'm so happy that I'm here’. And with such guys, you can work because they like to come. They don't have conditions to come. ‘But am I playing or whatever?’ No, ‘the coach called me. The national team wants me’. Then from my side, I have to give them confidence, and I have to let them feel okay. ‘Hey, I appreciate that you are here. I appreciate what you did in training’. I think it was the right moment to do it.

On the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations finals: “I can say already now that the next Afcon will be totally different than the Afcon two years ago, because everybody knows South Africa now. When we went to Afcon, there were many people who were asking themselves, ‘what are they going to do in Afcon with those players?’ But we did it. Now, from the first game, we will have opponents who will be 150% motivated because they want to beat South Africa. So we have to be prepared and we will prepare ourselves for that. It was nice two years ago. You can be sure, and you can believe me, I want the same thing, and if it's possible more, but it is still a game of football, and you can play well and lose a game, or maybe not be in the best shape at the right moment. This is something you don't have under control, but it will be different for all of us. And if we can make that step again, and then we go to the World Cup, I think it will not be a long time before South Africa will be at the top of Africa, and this is something we have to try to achieve, because this nation was too long behind, and nobody had any respect for this team or for this country. I think this has changed now.”

Ivory Coast made sure to book their spot at the upcoming FIFA World Cup for the first time since 2014 following a professional 3-0 victory over Kenya to top Group F at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium on Tuesday night.

Ivory Coast made their intentions known from the start and took the lead in the seventh minute through captain Franck Kessie.

With Amad Diallo biding his time with the ball at his feet on the right flank, the Manchester United ace picked out Kessie with precision before the attacker found the back of the net.

The Ivorians remained in control of the tie leading up to the midway point of the first-half and created numerous scoring chances in the process.

Benni McCarthy’s charges battled under the cosh, particularly in the wide areas of the pitch.

Nicolas Pepe was presented with one of the chances of the first half in the 26th minute after he rounded the opposition goalkeeper before hitting the side net, much to the disbelief of the crowd at the Alassane Ouattara Ebimpé Olympic Stadium.

While the hosts continued to pile on the pressure, the score remained at 1-0 at the break with Kessie making the difference for his side.

Ivory Coast immediately went on the attack in the second half and eventually doubled their lead through a clinical effort by Yan Diomande in the 54th minute.

After gathering the ball en-route to goal, the Ivorian attacker put the Kenyan defence on the backfoot with a mazy run before letting off a venomous right-footed shot to the goalkeeper’s bottom left corner.

The Harambee Stars did little to trouble Ivory Coast for much of the second half given the home team’s relentless attacking pressure leading up to the 80th minute mark.

Then, in a moment that added to Kenya’s woes, Diallo scored Ivory Coast’s third goal via a direct free-kick in the 84th minute as they began to stare World Cup qualification in the eye.

Kenya were no match for the attacking prowess of Ivory Coast as the Elephants commenced their World Cup qualification celebrations on their own patch.

The Elephants confirm their spot in the 2026 #FIFAWorldCup 🇨🇮🌟#WCQ | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/1gmYd4wnc8

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

Ivory Coast: (1) 3 (Kessie 7’, Diomande 54’, Diallo 84’ Kenya: 0

Ivory Coast: Y. Fofana, E. Agbadou, A. Diallo (O. Diakite 87’), Y. Diomande (S. Adingra 75’), G. Doue (A. Zohouri 87’), E. Guessand (S. Haller 75’), F. Kessie, G. Konan, E. Ndicka, N. Pepe (P. Zouzoua 60’), I. Sangare

Kenya: B. Omondi, R. Ogam, M. Okwaro, M. Olunga (D. Abuya 67’), A. Omija (J. Ochieng 46’), A. Onyango (A. Wilson 46’) , T. Ouma (M. Omondi 81’), S. Owino, D. Sakari, C. Sichenje, W. Wilson (A. Odhiambo 80’)

Morocco set a new record for most consecutive wins after they beat Congo 1-0 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Tuesday night to finish with a perfect record in 2026 World Cup qualifying.

Youssef En-Nesyri stepped off the bench to score the only goal of the game in the second half as Walid Regragui's side surpassed Spain's achievement of 15 wins in a row set between 2008 and 2009.

The Atlas Lions made it eight wins from eight in Group E to become the only team who didn't drop any points during the qualifying campaign.

The hosts bossed proceedings in the first half and created numerous chances, but they failed to trouble Perrauld Ndinga with any of their six attempts at goal.

🚨 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗗 𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗚𝗨𝗜 🇲🇦 𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗥𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗡𝗦 𝗟’𝗛𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗜𝗥𝗘 👑

Il devient le 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗠𝗜𝗘𝗥 𝗦𝗘́𝗟𝗘𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗨𝗥 de 𝗟’𝗛𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗜𝗥𝗘 à enchaîner 16 victoires consécutives avec une sélection. 🏆 pic.twitter.com/NKIwb1WcJS

— JMA Morocco 🇲🇦 (@JMA_Morocco) October 14, 2025

Nayef Aguerd sent a free-kick wide of the target on 20 minutes while Abde Ezzalzouli lacked composure as he fired a wayward shot in the 31st minute.

Deo Bassinga had a sniff at goal for the Red Devils a few minutes earlier following good build-up, but he too was unable to hit the target.

Eliesse Ben Seghir also passed up an opportunity to open the scoring on 37 minutes after latching onto Souffian El Karouani's dangerous cross as he failed to test Ndinga as well.

Morocco continued to probe away in search of the opening goal and Ndinga was finally called into action on 58 minutes to make a routine save from Ismael Saibari.

The North Africans threatened again three minutes later when Neil El Aynaoui lined up a shot from range that gave Ndinga some more work to do.

However, the breakthrough eventually came on 63 minutes as substitute En-Nesyri beat Ndinga with a well-placed shot to register his second goal in qualifying.

Regragui made a whole host of changes shortly afterwards to inject more energy into his attack, although Morocco weren't able to add to their one goal after struggling to break down a rigid opposition defence.

Morocco (0) 1 (En-Nesyri 63') Congo 0

Morocco: Y. Bounou, A. Hakimi, J. El Yamiq (I. Akhomach 64'), N. Aguerd, S. El Karouani, E. Ben Seghir (Y. En-Nesyri 46'), N. El Aynaoui, I. Saibari, B. Diaz (O. Targhalline 81'), H. Igamane (A. El Kaabi 64'), A. Ezzalzouli (A. Masina 64').

Congo: P. Ndinga, R. Etou, C. Makosso, J. Mbemba, C. Atipo (P. Mouandza 54'), V. Dzaba (G. Nongo 72'), G. Otanga (C. Taty 88'), J. Kapaya, M. Ndockyt, D. Moussavou (M. Koto 54'), D. Bassinga (I. Ankobo 72').

Africa’s final three automatic qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are South Africa, Senegal and Ivory Coast after a busy Tuesday saw 11 matches played across the continent.

South Africa secured their ticket in the early-evening block of matches, defeating Rwanda 3-0 at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit courtesy of goals from Thalente Mbatha, Oswin Appollis and Evidence Makgopa.

This, combined with a 4-0 win for Nigeria over Benin at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo (featuring a hat-trick from Victor Osimhen), saw Bafana Bafana leapfrog to the top of the Group C standings and secure their fourth World Cup appearance, adding to 1998, 2002 and 2010.

𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐊𝐄𝐓 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐄𝐃 🇿🇦✈️

Bafana Bafana are on their way to the 2026 #FIFAWorldCup 🎟️⚽ pic.twitter.com/TlX8bAYGri

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

As for the Super Eagles, their emphatic triumph secured a top-ranked runners-up finish which will see them join Gabon, Cameroon and DR Congo in next month’s second round playoffs.

The early-evening slot also saw Algeria come from behind to defeat Uganda 2-1 in a Group G clash in Tizi Ouzou, with a brace of penalties from Mohamed Amoura – crushing the Cranes’ hopes of being one of the top-ranked runners-up.

Elsewhere in Group G, Mozambique defeated bottom-of-the-log Somalia 1-0 in Oran to finish third, while Guinea and Botswana played out an entertaining 2-2 draw to come home in fourth and fifth respectively.

In the night matches, Senegal and Ivory Coast claimed home wins to secure the top spots in Groups B and F respectively.

The Teranga Lions overpowered Mauritania 4-0 at the Diamniadio Olympic Stadium – inspired by a brace from talisman Sadio Mane – to earn them a fourth World Cup appearance, adding to 2002, 2018 and 2022.

Senegal become the eighth African nation to qualify for the 2026 #FIFAWorldCup 🇸🇳🏆#WCQ | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/btUUP9VuFn

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

The Elephants trumped Kenya 3-0 at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan – with goals from Franck Kessie, Yan Diomande and Amad Diallo – to see them return to the World Cup and add to previous appearances in 2006, 2010 and 2014.

The Elephants confirm their spot in the 2026 #FIFAWorldCup 🇨🇮🌟#WCQ | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/1gmYd4wnc8

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

In addition, Groups B and F produced the last two top-ranked runners-up advancing to the playoffs: in the former, DR Congo defeated Sudan 1-0 at the Martyrs Stadium in Kinshasa (courtesy of a goal from Theo Bongonda) to oust Burkina Faso from the top quartet, while in the latter, Gabon’s berth was already assured before their 2-0 win over Burundi (goals from Bryan Meyo Ngoua and Mario Lemina) at the Franceville Stadium.

HISTORY FOR MOROCCO

The night matches also featured already-qualified Morocco defeating Congo 1-0 (goal from Youssef En Nesyri) at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

The Atlas Lions therefore created a slice of football history, recording a world record 16th successive win in senior international football.

In the afternoon, a dead-rubber match from Group F saw the Gambia claim a massive 7-0 away win over the Seychelles at the Cote d’Or National Sports Complex in Saint Pierre (Mauritius).

Abdoulie Manneh scored a hat-trick, while Adama Sidibeh and Musa Barrow netted two goals apiece.

The second round (playoffs) of the qualifiers will be played in Morocco in November, with semifinals and a final deciding Africa’s one representative for the inter-confederation playoffs (set for March 2026).

The drama did not stop on the African continent tonight 🌍✨#WCQ | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/O29DvodlZS

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (CAF/Africa)

Results, Tuesday 14 October

Seychelles 0-7 Gambia

Somalia 0-1 Mozambique

Algeria 2-1 Uganda

South Africa 3-0 Rwanda

Nigeria 4-0 Benin

Guinea 2-2 Botswana

Ivory Coast 3-0 Kenya

Gabon 2-0 Burundi

DR Congo 1-0 Sudan

Morocco 1-0 Congo

Senegal 4-0 Mauritania

AFRICA’S NINE AUTOMATIC QUALIFIERS

Morocco (previous appearances in 1970, 1986, 1994, 1998, 2018, 2022)

Tunisia (1978, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2018, 2022)

Egypt (1934, 1990, 2018)

Algeria (1982, 1986, 2010, 2014)

Ghana (2006, 2010, 2014, 2022)

Cape Verde (debutants)

South Africa (1998, 2002, 2010)

Ivory Coast (2006, 2010, 2014)

Senegal (2002, 2018, 2022)

Top-ranked runners-up

Gabon

Nigeria

Cameroon

DR Congo

The 2026 #FIFAWorldCup picture is starting to come together 📷#SSFootball pic.twitter.com/IHJJmz6Sa8

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

DR Congo defeated Sudan 1-0 at the Martyrs Stadium in Kinshasa on Tuesday night to keep alive their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

This Group B match saw the Leopards triumph thanks to Theo Bongonda’s goal in the first half, with the result seeing them finish just two points behind leaders Senegal.

And with a haul of 16 points (excluding results against bottom-of-the-log South Sudan), DRC were ranked second in the runners-up table, just behind Gabon and ahead of Cameroon and Nigeria.

✅ CONFIRMED

🌍 African WC playoff semifinal pairs:

🇳🇬 Nigeria v Gabon 🇬🇦
🇨🇲 Cameroon v Congo DR 🇨🇩

▪️single leg semifinals
▪️SF winners play in a single leg final
▪️🏟️ all hosted in 🇲🇦
▪️13-16 Nov 2025
▪️winners of the final go to 🧩 Inter-confederation playoffs pic.twitter.com/T2k3lpQZxD

— Football Meets Data (@fmeetsdata) October 14, 2025

These four teams will next compete in semifinals and a final in Morocco next month to produce one African representative for the inter-confederation playoffs in March 2026

DRC were the more aggressive and proactive team from early on, but had to wait until the 29th minute to break the deadlock, with Theo Bongonda finding the back of the net from Ngalaye Mukau’s assist.

The Leopards looked for more goals through the remainder of the first half, but had to be satisfied with a 1-0 lead at the interval.

The second half was a tense one for the hosts, who were unable to add to their advantage as the minutes ticked on, and also had to fend off several promising attacks from the Falcons of Jediane.

However, the final whistle saw them confirm a 1-0 triumph and seal a place in the playoffs.

DR Congo (1) 1 (T. Bongonda 29’) Sudan 0

DRC: L. Mpasi-Nzau, T. Bongonda, M. Elia (B. Cipenga 64’), S. Essende (F. Mayele 75’), E. Kayembe, A. Masuaku, C. Mbemba, S. Moutoussamy, N. Mukau (C. Pickel 75’), A. Tuanzebe, A. Wan-Bissaka

Sudan: M. Elneel, A. Abaker, S. Alhassan (M. Alrashed 46’), M. Hakeem, H. Musa, A. Nooh (M. Abdelrahman 73’), A. Omer (Y. Awad 73’), A. Tabanja, A. Taifour, S. Thierry (M. Eisa 73’), A. Zaid

Senegal blew away Mauritania as they claimed a 4-0 win in their final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification (Group B) match at the Stade Me Abdoulaye Wade in Diamniadio on Tuesday night.

Therefore, the Lions of Teranga qualified for the World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA as Group B winners.

The 2021 African champions will now focus on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which is scheduled to be hosted by Morocco later this year.

Senegal become the eighth African nation to qualify for the 2026 #FIFAWorldCup 🇸🇳🏆#WCQ | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/btUUP9VuFn

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

The Lions of Chinguetti, on the other hand, wrapped up an unsuccessful qualifying campaign in fifth place in the Group B standings.

Having failed to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, the West African side are expected to play international friendlies in the upcoming FIFA break.

With a spot in the World Cup finals at stake, Lions of Teranga head coach Pape Thiaw fielded some of his best players, including their record goalscorer Sadio Mane, who started upfront along with Ismaila Sarr and Nicolas Jackson.

The Lions of Chinguetti thought they had contained Mane for the entire first half, but the two-time African Footballer of the Year had other ideas as he netted his 47th international goal in stoppage time to hand Senegal a 1-0 lead heading into the half-time break.

Mane continued to create problems for the Mauritania defence after the restart and he grabbed his brace three minutes into the second half. 

The Al-Nassr superstar beat goalkeeper Abderrahmane Sarr to make it 2-0 to Senegal, much to the delight of the home crowd.

The hosts continued to search for more goals and Iliman Ndiaye put his name on the score sheet when he found the back of the net with the Lions of Chinguetti's defence exposed in the 64th minute, making it 3-0 to Senegal, Jackson being the provider of the assist.

Senegal's emphatic victory was sealed by Habib Diallo when he hit the back of the net with five minutes left on the clock after being set up by Ismaila Sarr and the West African giants emerged as 4-0 winners on the night.

Senegal (1) 4 (Mane 45'+1, 48', Ndiaye 64', Diallo 85') Mauritania 0

Senegal: Diaw, Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhate, Diouf, P. Gueye (Mendy 78'), I. Gueye (Ciss 88'), Ndiaye (Sabaly 78'), Sarr, Mane (Diallo 78'), Jackson (P. M Sarr 68')

Mauritania: Sarr, Abd, Ba (Keita 73'), Saleck, Abeid, Camara, Mouhsine (S. B. Amar 60'), Lekoueiry, Ngom (Haidara 74'), Koita (Said 74'), Yade (Sy 46')

Nigeria qualified for the second round of the 2026 World Cup after they cruised to a 4-0 victory over Benin at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Tuesday night.

Victor Osimhen was the star of the show as he plundered a hat-trick before Frank Onyeka added gloss to the scoreline with a fourth goal at the death.

Victor Osimhen is making sure the Super Eagles get the dub 😤🇳🇬

He gets his hat-trick against Benin 💥

📺 Stream #WCQ on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/JiYmQR6uYg

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

Eric Chelle's side finished second in Group C behind South Africa after pipping the Cheetahs on goal difference and they kept their World Cup hopes alive as one of the best fourth-placed teams amongst the nine runners-up.

🇿🇦 Bafana Bafana are going to the FIFA World Cup 2026!

🌍 South Africa seal their ticket in style after a commanding 3–0 victory over Rwanda!

🇳🇬 🦅 Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick inspired Nigeria’s 4–0 win over Benin, but the Super Eagles will have to battle it out in the African… pic.twitter.com/vWmplRueRa

— FIFA World Cup Stats (@alimo_philip) October 14, 2025

The Super Eagles came into the clash trailing group leaders Benin by three points in third place after both of them won their matches on 10 October.

The hosts got off to the best possible start when Samuel Chukwueze played in Osimhen with a defence-splitting pass and the striker slotted home inside the right post for a third-minute lead.

Gernot Rohr's side looked to respond and Steve Mounie fired a tame shot straight at Stanley Nwabali from close range on 14 minutes after latching onto a cross.

Chances continued to come at both ends as Osimhen directed a header over the crossbar from Chukwueze's cross on 22 minutes before Andreas Hountondji hit the side-netting from an angle on the right following a good move down that flank.

But it was the home fans who were celebrating again on 37 minutes after Chukwueze and Osimhen linked up to good effect once more, with the former delivering a pin-point cross for the latter to head home at the far post.

The Super Eagles put the game out of sight six minutes into the second half as Osimhen rose highest to steer Moses Simon's free-kick in off the underside of the bar with his head.

A TRUE WARLORD ⚔️! https://t.co/Wi8CVPSQeW pic.twitter.com/dS2JbsIOc1

— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) October 14, 2025

Simon almost went from provider to goalscorer on 55 minutes as he forced Dandjinou into a fine save with a shot from close range.

Osimhen looked hungry for more goals and was denied a fourth by the out-stretched glove of Dandjinou, who pulled off a superb save to keep out his header in the 79th minute.

However, the Galatasaray star had to settle for a hat-trick in the end after being replaced by Tolu Arokodare two minutes later and walking off to well-earned applause from the supporters.

There was still time for substitute Onyeka to make his mark as he drilled a shot into the bottom left corner of the net following good work from Simon on the left to pick him out.

Nigeria (2) 4 (Osimhen 3', 38', 51', Onyeka 90+1') Benin 0

Nigeria: S. Nwabali, B. Fredrick, S. Ajayi, C. Bassey, Z. Sanusi (B. Onyemaechi 74'), S. Chukwueze (O. Olusegun 46'), W. Ndidi, A. Iwobi (T. Moffi 88'), M. Simon, V. Osimhen, A. Adams (F. Onyeka 74').

Benin: M. Dandjinou, T. Ouorou, O. Verdon, M. Tijani, D. Kiki, C. Hountondji, D. Dokou (R. Amoussou 67'), H. Imourane, A. Tosin (J. Dossou 67'), S. Mounie, A. Hountondji (J. Olaitan 56').

South Africa thrashed Rwanda 3-0 in their final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification (Group C) match played at the Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday night to book their ticket to the global showpiece.

South Africa takes a deep breath 🇿🇦💥

Bafana Bafana 𝐖𝐈𝐋𝐋 return to the #FIFAWorldCup 🏆✈️#WCQ | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/sjcOxHknpE

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

The result saw Bafana Bafana qualify for the World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA as Group C winners.

𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐊𝐄𝐓 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐄𝐃 🇿🇦✈️

Bafana Bafana are on their way to the 2026 #FIFAWorldCup 🎟️⚽ pic.twitter.com/TlX8bAYGri

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

The Southern African giants will now play international friendly matches as they prepare for December's 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Amavubi, on the other hand, ended a disappointing qualifying campaign with a defeat and they finished fifth in the group standings.

The East African side also failed to qualify for the 2025 AFCON and they are likely to play friendly matches in the next FIFA break.

Bafana Bafana got off to a brilliant start with Oswin Appollis causing havoc for the Amavubi defence.

The quick winger set up Thalente Mbatha, who netted with a powerful shot from outside the box to hand South Africa a 1-0 lead five minutes into the match.

A moment for this rocket from Thalente Mbatha 🇿🇦🚀#WCQ | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/QDodsz8bPD

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

The hosts doubled their lead four minutes before the half-hour mark after a good team move.

Appollis grabbed a well-deserved goal after being set up by his Orlando Pirates teammate Evidence Makgopa and South Africa were 2-0 up at the interval.

Oswin Appollis doubles Bafana Bafana's lead with a cracker 🇿🇦💥

📺 Stream #WCQ on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/HxZF6zEr67

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

Hugo Broos's side did not take their foot off the pedal after the restart as they continued to launch attacks and they extended their lead in the 72nd minute.

Appollis grabbed his second assist of the game as his corner-kick was headed home by Evidence Makgopa, who sealed South Africa's 3-0 win.

Straight from the training ground and onto the pitch 🎯

Evidence Makgopa rises highest to get South Africa's third 🇿🇦💥

📺 Stream #WCQ on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/A0ps4WEqIK

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 14, 2025

South Africa (2) 3 (Mbatha 5', Appollis 26', Makgopa 72')

Rwanda 0

South Africa: Williams; Mudau, Ndamane, Sibisi, Modiba; Mokoena, Mbatha (Shabalala 89'), Mbule (Aubaas 89'); Appollis, Morena (Nkota 35'), Makgopa (Cupido 85')

Rwanda: Ntwari; Mutsinzi, Byiringiro, Manzi, Niyomugabo (Hamon 68'); Bizimana (Nkulikiyimana 85'), B. Mugisha, Muhire, Kwizera (Imanishimwe 52'), G. Mugisha, Nshuti (Biramahire 68')

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos is happy that his team is right back on track and looking forward to the decisive and highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda at the Mbombela stadium in Mpumalanga on Tuesday night. Kickoff is at 6pm.

It is MD-1 in Mbombela, and we are working!!!

2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier
Group C

⚽️ South Africa 🇿🇦 vs 🇷🇼 Rwanda
🗓 14 October 2025
⏰️ 18h00
🏟 Mbombela Stadium #BafanaPride@flysaa @SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/HqEsRC1WUG

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) October 13, 2025

This is the South African senior men’s national team’s final match of these World Cup qualifiers, and the hosts, who remain second on the standings and two points behind leaders Benin, welcome a Rwanda side that is already out of the qualifying equation. Broos’ charges need to beat the Rwandans and then hope that the Nigerians beat Benin at home on the same day.

The Bafana Bafana coach said he needed his charges to shake off the disappointment of drawing 0-0 with Zimbabwe in the previous World Cup qualifier played at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday night. He said the spark is back in the team and the players are now fully prepared for the showdown against Rwanda.

Bafana Bafana training at Mbombela Stadium. The work continues.#BafanaPride@SABC_Sport @flysaa pic.twitter.com/FUqhHMtGrh

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) October 13, 2025

“We are back mentally, and that is very important. The (team’s) qualities didn’t disappear with the draw against Zimbabwe. It was mentally that we had to recover and turn the button. You can be sure that the button has been turned, and mentality, the team spirit and the belief is there again,” he said.

“This is another amazing thing about this team, and after the uppercut we got on Friday, everyone can turn the button and focus on the next job in the shortest period of time. Therefore, I believe again and I’m confident that tomorrow we will fight for it again, and we will try to win the game, and we will have a big chance to win.”

As we continue to build up to the final 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Rwanda in Mbombela on Tuesday.#BafanaPride@SABC_Sport @flysaa pic.twitter.com/AiYrbfs4QE

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) October 12, 2025

Captain Ronwen Williams echoed Broos and said the players mean business.

“Obviously we were a bit down, we were devastated but as the coach told us, we had 24 hours to clean that feeling out of our system. If you could have seen our training yesterday, you would have seen that the boys mean business,” he said. 

“I mean, the coach emphasised this, why do we need to start doubting ourselves now? Yes, it was a setback, but we shouldn’t forget what we’ve done over the last few years.

“We have come in leaps and bounds, and you know we’ve done extremely well. So, we don’t have to change much, we don’t have to have any doubts, and we still believe in the team that we’ve got.

"We still believe that there’s all to play for and we believe that we can make history tomorrow. You can feel and you can sense that inside the team and the players, the mindset is good. But like I said, of course we would have loved things to be different, but they are not. So, the boys know that we have to dig deep, we have to go again and just leave our all on the field tomorrow night."

Cape Verde beat Eswatini 3-0 on Monday to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup, booking their place in football's global showpiece for the very first time.

🚨 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋: Cape Verde 🇨🇻 have qualified for the 2026 World Cup for the 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝑯𝑰𝑺𝑻𝑶𝑹𝒀 🤩

With a population of just 590,000 they are also the second smallest nation to qualify for a World Cup finals (after Iceland) - what an… pic.twitter.com/zxgLDiXDxu

— 433 (@433) October 13, 2025

The team from an archipelago off the coast of Senegal has about 550,000 inhabitants, making Cape Verde the country with the smallest population to represent Africa in the global showpiece.

Cape Verde won Group D with 23 points, four more than Cameroon, who hold the African record for World Cup appearances with eight. Cameroon drew 0-0 with Angola in Yaounde.

After dominating the first half of the 2026 qualifier, but seldom threatening to score, the Blue Sharks struck twice through Dailon Livramento and Willy Semedo in the first nine minutes after half-time before a 15,000 flag-waving crowd in Praia.

🇨🇻 Cape Verde is now the second-smallest nation ever to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

🌍 It’s their first time on football’s biggest stage!

🇺🇸 A population of just 560,000 about the size of Albuquerque.

🦈 The Blue Sharks pulled off the incredible, sealing… pic.twitter.com/AiMq3ArRQb

— FIFA World Cup Stats (@alimo_philip) October 13, 2025

Livramento claimed his fourth goal of the 10-round qualifying campaign on 48 minutes, and Semedo struck six minutes later. Both goals came from close-range tap-ins.

Cape Verde added a third goal in added time when Stopira, a substitute for Joao Paulo, pounced on a loose ball to score.

Cape Verde rely heavily on players born outside the nation to Cape Verdean parents or grandparents. Livramento was born in Rotterdam and Semedo near Paris.

Eswatini had come to the 10-island archipelago with little attacking ambition, adopting a 5-4-1 formation in front of goalkeeper Khanyakwezwe Shabalala.

But after conceding twice there was no way back for the team from southern Africa, who lost seven qualifiers and drew the other three.

Cape Verde spread the national team net wide with three starters based in Portugal and one each in the United States, Republic of Ireland, UAE, Romania, Russia, Netherlands, Turkey and Cyprus.

Cape Verde 🇨🇻 has qualified to the 2026 World Cup, incredible.

A country with a population of roughly 500K people.
I know there are a lot of negatives with expanding the World Cup but this is one of the positives.

Congrats to 🇨🇻, see you in the 🇺🇸
pic.twitter.com/8FMbRg0bjX

— Tactical Manager (@ManagerTactical) October 13, 2025

The remarkable qualification of Cape Verde came after they made a disappointing start to the 10-match campaign, drawing 0-0 at home with Angola and slumping to a 4-1 loss in Cameroon.

Those results left the Blue Sharks with four points from a possible nine, having won away to Eswatini in between.

BOUNCEBACK

But after the matchday three loss in Yaounde, Cape Verde won five consecutive qualifiers, including crucial one-goal victories away to Angola and at home to Cameroon.

That left the islanders needing three points from their final two qualifiers this month and a drama-filled 3-3 in Libya secured one before hosting Eswatini.

Last year, in the midst of the World Cup campaign, Cape Verde fared poorly in 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying, winning only one match of six and failing to secure a place at the tournament.

Despite flopping in a group from which Egypt and Botswana advanced, Cape Verdean officials retained faith in long-serving coach Pedro Leitao Brito.

WOW, CAPE VERDE HAS DONE IT FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER‼️😤

THEY ARE THE SECOND-SMALLEST COUNTRY EVER TO QUALIFY FOR THE FIFA MEN'S WORLD CUP

A NATION OF JUST OVER 500,000 PEOPLE

WOW 👏 #AfroBallers pic.twitter.com/YYk3wCRxqk

— AfroBallers (@afroballers) October 13, 2025

After two stints as assistant coach of the national team and spells with five local clubs, the coach popularly known as Bubista took charge of Cape Verde in 2020.

The 55-year-old former centre-back, who represented his country 21 times, guided Cape Verde to successive Afcon tournaments, in Cameroon three years ago and Ivory Coast last year.

They reached the knockout phase each time, making a last-16 exit, then losing a quarterfinal against South Africa on penalties after having four spot-kicks saved.

In Group H, already-qualified Tunisia achieved a ninth victory by overcoming second-placed Namibia 3-0 near Tunis with Hannibal Mejbri from Premier League outfit Burnley among the scorers.

The Carthage Eagles, who will make a seventh appearance at the World Cup next year, scored 22 goals in 10 qualifiers and did not concede.

Despite the loss, Namibia edged Liberia on goal difference for the runners-up spot, but will finish last in the table for second-placed nations and be eliminated.

Having suspended French coach Nicolas Dupuis after a five-goal hiding from Senegal last Friday, South Sudan kept a clean sheet in a 0-0 Group B draw with fellow eliminated side Togo.

Top spot in the section rests between Senegal, the leaders with 21 points, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, who are two points behind. Both play their final qualifiers on Tuesday.

Lesotho struck late to claim a 1-0 victory over Zimbabwe in their final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification (Group C) match played at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Monday evening.

What was the point of sweating and denying South Africa an opportunity to qualify for the world cup when you can’t even get a point against Lesotho? Just causing the lives of our brothers and sisters in Mzansi difficult?

This was an embarrassing run & Coach should do better 😭 pic.twitter.com/nVLD8MBnhA

— Freddy Michael Masarirevu⚖️ (@freddyMM93) October 13, 2025

Therefore, Likuena ended a disappointing qualifying campaign with a victory, which sees them finish in fourth place in the group standings. Lesotho could organise international friendlies in the upcoming Fifa breaks, after failing to qualify for the 2025 Afcon.

The Warriors, on the other hand, ended an unsuccessful qualifying campaign in sixth place in the group standings without winning a single match. Zimbabwe are expected to play friendly matches as part of their preparations for December's 2025 Afcon.

The Warriors enjoyed better possession in the opening exchanges of the match and they nearly grabbed an early goal in the eighth minute, but goalkeeper Sekhoane Moerane recovered well after he had fumbled Walter Musona's effort.

However, Likuena grew in confidence as the match progressed and keeper Elvis Chipezeze needed two attempts to stop an effort from Mphale Mphalaole on the half-hour mark. The score was 0-0 during the half-time break in the Southern African Derby clash.

Zimbabwe started the second half brightly, and they had a great chance to break the deadlock after Moerane was beaten on the hour mark. Bill Antonio was sent through on goal, but Motlomelo Mkwanazi cleared the ball just before the former could fire into an empty net.

Nevertheless, the Warriors were made to rue their missed chances in stoppage time as Neo Mokhachane set up fellow substitute Hlompho Kalake, who beat Chipezeze with a sublime shot from outside the box to earn Lesotho a 1-0 victory over Zimbabwe on the night.

Lesotho 1 (Kalake 90'+3)

Zimbabwe 0

Lesotho: Moerane, Malane (Mokhachane 70'), Mkhwanazi, Makhele, Mokokoane, Matlabe (Motebang 83'), Thaba (Sefali 70'), Matsau (Kalake 46'), Mphalaole, Snyders, Tshotleho (Toloane 36')

Zimbabwe: Chipezeze, Dube, Takwara (Murwira 44'), W. Musona (Billiat 62'), Fabisch (Nakamba 46'), Munetsi, Galloway, Zemura, Antonio (Msendami 80'), Jalai, Chirewa (Dzvukamanja 80')

Monday’s 2026 Fifa World Cup qualification across Africa saw Cape Verde secure their first-ever appearance at the global tournament, after they claimed an emphatic 3-0 win over Eswatini in one of eight matches played across the continent.

🚨🏆 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 | Cape Verde have QUALIFIED for the 2026 World Cup! 🇨🇻✅

Absolutely historic moment. It's the first time they have ever qualified for the World Cup.

Cape Verde will be the second smallest nation to ever feature in the competition (after Iceland in 2018). pic.twitter.com/XlRpQgzHSe

— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) October 13, 2025

Needing a victory at the National Stadium in Praia to guarantee top spot in Group D, the Blue Sharks endured a frustrating first 45 minutes in which nerves and a lack of attacking rhythm characterised their play.

However, they broke the deadlock early in the second half via Dailon Rocha Livramento and soon doubled their advantage through Willy Semedo. From then on, it was a celebratory party for Cape Verde and their supporters, and the mood was lifted even further in injury time when beloved veteran Stopira added a third to complete the scoring.

🚨 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋: Cape Verde 🇨🇻 have qualified for the 2026 World Cup for the 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝑯𝑰𝑺𝑻𝑶𝑹𝒀 🤩

With a population of just 590,000 they are also the second smallest nation to qualify for a World Cup finals (after Iceland) - what an… pic.twitter.com/zxgLDiXDxu

— 433 (@433) October 13, 2025

Elsewhere in Group D, Cameroon were held to a goalless draw in Yaounde by Angola. The Indomitable Lions would have been hoping to win in order to put at least some pressure on Cape Verde, but instead they ended up dropping two crucial points, which could hurt them when the rankings for the runners-up are finalised on Tuesday.

The early evening on Monday also saw a goalless stalemate between Mauritius and Libya in a Group D dead-rubber, while Group C’s basement dwellers Zimbabwe suffered a fifth defeat after they fell 1-0 at the hands of Lesotho in Polokwane, with a late goal from Hlompho Kalake.

NEAR-PERFECT RECORD

In the afternoon block of matches, already-qualified Tunisia ensured that they wrapped up Group H with a near-perfect record of nine wins from 10 matches and zero goals conceded, as they defeated Namibia 3-0 at the Hammadi Agrebi Stadium. Ali Abdi, Hannibal Mejbri and Ferjani Sassi netted for the Carthage Eagles.

At the same time, Sao Tome and Principe claimed just their second-ever World Cup qualifying win, as they defeated Malawi 1-0 in neutral Sousse (courtesy of a penalty from Ronaldo Lumungo), Equatorial Guinea and Liberia drew 1-1 in Malabo (goals from Federico Bikoro and Nicholas Andrews respectively), and a Group B dead-rubber between South Sudan and Togo ended 0-0 in Juba.

Matchday 10, and the group stage as a whole, will conclude with 11 fixtures across Africa on Tuesday, 14 October, headlined by Senegal and Ivory Coast chasing automatic qualification, while Group C will go down to the wire between Benin, Nigeria and South Africa.

2026 FIFA WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS (CAF/AFRICA)

Results, Monday 13 October

South Sudan 0-0 Togo

Tunisia 3-0 Namibia

Equatorial Guinea 1-1 Liberia

Sao Tome & Principe 1-0 Malawi

Mauritius 0-0 Libya

Cameroon 0-0 Angola

Cape Verde 3-0 Eswatini

Lesotho 1-0 Zimbabwe

The Democratic Republic of the Congo face Sudan at the Pentecost Martyrs Stadium in Kinshasa on Tuesday, as the hosts hope to secure their spot at the 2026 Fifa World Cup in their last qualifier.

Kick-off is at 9pm CAT.

The DRC claimed a 1-0 win over Togo at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo on Friday, keeping the pressure on Group B leaders Senegal.

Senegal are two points ahead of the DRC and could punch their ticket for the World Cup with a win over Mauritania on Tuesday.

In order to qualify for the World Cup, the Leopards will need Senegal to lose while they win against Sudan to claim top spot in Group B.

Should Senegal draw, they would be level with the DRC on points but ahead on goal difference unless the DRC score seven goals to pull themselves level.

With a win and a result going Senegal's way, the DRC can secure a spot as one of the best second-placed teams in group play to fight for a chance to reach the Fifa Play-Off Tournament. A win would put the Leopards clear of Uganda by one point in the race for the final spot in the playoffs.

Sudan are third in Group B with 13 points from nine games, having managed three wins, four draws and two losses.

The Falcons of Jediane are currently six points behind their last opponent and have run their qualifying race, now having no chance of reaching the World Cup.

Sudan defeated the Leopards 1-0 in November 2023 at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Benghazi, Libya, and will be playing for pride on Tuesday.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

DRC - Cédric Bakambu: After netting on Friday, Cédric Bakambu took his tally to three goals and two assists in six World Cup qualifiers. The Real Betis forward has notched 20 goals in 61 caps for his national team and brings valuable experience with his keen eye for goal.

Sudan - Mohamed Eisa: 31-year-old centre forward Mohamed Eisa has bagged two goals in five World Cup qualifiers for Sudan. With 13 caps and three goals for his country, Eisa will be looking to put a dent in the DRC’s hopes.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Games: 4

DRC wins: 2

Sudan wins: 2

Draws: 0

Senegal will tussle it out with Mauritania in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification (Group B) match at the Stade Me Abdoulaye Wade in Diamniadio on Tuesday.

Kick-off is 9pm CAT.

CURRENT FORM

The Lions of Teranga extended their winning streak to four matches in Group B when they handed South Sudan a 5-0 drubbing away on October 10. Senegal also remained undefeated in the group, having drawn three times and won six games.

Furthermore, Senegal are placed at the top of the group standings - two points clear of second-placed DR Congo. The West African giants will book their spot in the World Cup finals if they secure a win over Mauritania and a draw could also be enough due to their superior goal difference over Congo.

Meanwhile, Mauritania are undefeated in their last three matches in Group B, having drawn 0-0 with Sudan away on October 10, making it back-to-back draws after securing a victory over Togo last month.

The Lions of Chinguetti are placed fifth in the group standings, having already been eliminated and the West African side will be looking to end their disappointing qualifying campaign with what would be their second victory in Group B.

TEAM NEWS

The Senegalese Football Federation has announced that Ismail Jakobs has joined the Lions of Teranga's camp ahead of the match against Mauritania after missing the South Sudan clash.

Mauritania, on the other hand, will have to do without Maata Magassa when they take on Senegal, as the ZED DC midfielder is suspended after collecting his second yellow card in the ongoing World Cup qualifiers against Sudan.

WHAT WAS SAID?

Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw:

“We have one match left. We will focus and finish well with a great victory in front of our home crowd," Thiaw said.

Mauritania head coach Aritz Lopez Garai:

"Ready to face this last date FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. Without options but with objectives as a selection and the same illusion as always," Garai said.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Senegal and Mauritania have met 19 times across all competitions following their maiden meeting in June 1977.

The Lions of Teranga have dominated this rivalry, having won 13 matches compared to the Lions of Chinguetti's one victory and five games were drawn.

The last meeting between the two sides ended in a 1-0 victory in favour of Senegal in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier played at the Stade Cheikha Ould Boïdiya in Nouakchott, Mauritania, in June 2024.