Africa’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up. While Morocco have already booked their place on the global stage, the rest of the continent’s giants — including Nigeria and South Africa — are locked in a tangled race that could come down to last-minute drama, FIFA rulings and high-stakes clashes.
Morocco’s Moment Of Dominance
The Atlas Lions became the first African side to qualify, smashing Niger 5-0 and extending their unbeaten run in qualifying. With 19 goals in just six matches, Morocco are not only through but making a statement — averaging more than three goals per game.
This qualification marks their third consecutive World Cup, a historic milestone. Their achievement also comes with the weight of expectation: after reaching the semifinals in Qatar 2022, fans believe Walid Regragui’s side could go even further in 2026. With Morocco set to host the Africa Cup of Nations later this year, the team is entering what many are calling a “golden cycle” for North African football.
Wan-Bissaka’s Long-Awaited Debut For DR Congo
Elsewhere, the Democratic Republic of Congo are daring to dream. Aaron Wan-Bissaka, once tipped as an England star, finally made his debut for the Leopards in their 4-1 win over South Sudan. The West Ham defender, alongside Premier League players like Yoane Wissa, helped DR Congo hold onto top spot in Group B.
With Senegal breathing down their necks, Tuesday’s clash in Kinshasa could prove decisive. For Congolese fans, who haven’t seen their nation at a World Cup since 1974, this campaign feels like a once-in-a-generation chance.
South Africa And Nigeria’s Knife-Edge Battle
For Group C, the spotlight shifts south. Bafana Bafana sit top with 16 points after seven matches, but their lead is anything but secure. Nigeria’s narrow 1-0 win over Rwanda kept their qualification hopes alive, setting up a blockbuster clash against South Africa in Bloemfontein.
Here’s where things get messy: South Africa’s use of suspended midfielder Teboho Mokoena earlier this year may lead to FIFA awarding Lesotho a default 3-0 victory. If confirmed, Bafana’s cushion shrinks dramatically.
The stakes are brutal. A win for Nigeria would cut South Africa’s lead to three points — and if FIFA rules against Bafana, the Super Eagles could be right back in contention.
What’s Next
If South Africa beat Nigeria at home, Hugo Broos’ men could silence the doubts and edge closer to their first World Cup since 2010. If they stumble, Group C could become the tightest finish on the continent, with even Benin still lurking in the mix.
One thing is certain: while Morocco can breathe easy, the rest of Africa is bracing for a stormy sprint to the finish line.
Source: ESPN Africa
Image Source: Eurofoot on X
