Algeria, Egypt, and Morocco Strengthen World Cup 2026 Campaigns

Algeria, Egypt, and Morocco all made significant strides towards securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Sudan’s surprising push for qualification took a hit as the sixth round of African qualifiers concluded on Tuesday.

Sudan, who have been forced to play all their home matches on neutral grounds due to the ongoing civil war, suffered a setback after conceding a last-minute equalizer against South Sudan, dropping to third place in Group B. DR Congo now leads the group, having won 2-0 in Mauritania, edging out Senegal and Sudan by a point.

Egypt, however, extended their lead in Group A with a 1-0 victory over Sierra Leone, maintaining a five-point cushion at the top. Meanwhile, Algeria pulled three points clear in Group G, thanks to a brilliant hat-trick from Mohamed Amoura in their 5-1 thrashing of Mozambique, their closest rivals.

Morocco also continued their strong form, securing a 2-0 win against Tanzania, which gave them a commanding nine-point advantage. However, the standings in Group E could change if Congo-Brazzaville’s suspension from international football is not lifted.

The nine group winners will automatically qualify for the 2026 World Cup, which will feature an expanded 48 teams. Additionally, the four best second-placed teams will enter a play-off series, with the winners advancing to an intercontinental tournament to determine the final spots.

Nigeria’s qualification hopes are in jeopardy after they were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Zimbabwe, leaving them six points behind Group C leaders South Africa.

The remaining four rounds of group matches will take place in September and October, with African play-offs set for November.