Does anyone know what is happening with Group E’s points structure since Congo has been suspended?
Wondering if it will be an automatic 3-0 win to the other team, or if all results from Congos’ games will be nullified
2026 World Cup - African qualifiers
The regulations are here: https://digitalhub.fifa.com/m/18d857c3e ... ion_EN.pdfKev wrote: Fri Mar 07, 2025 04:23 Does anyone know what is happening with Group E’s points structure since Congo has been suspended?
Wondering if it will be an automatic 3-0 win to the other team, or if all results from Congos’ games will be nullified
You can read Section 5: Withdrawal, unplayed matches and abandoned matches
The rules are actually quite vague. Basically all cases will be dealt with by FIFA, and they will make a decision accordingly.
Notice that unlike some other confederation such as AFC, where if a team fail to play any one match, they are immediately disqualified, no such rule is in place here. For example, Korea DPR failed to play a match against Japan, but they were simply awarded a 0-3 forfeit loss and allowed to continue.
So it is possible that should Congo fail to play their two matches in March due to FIFA suspension, then they are just given two losses, and could still stay in the competition, and if they are later reinstated (their next matches after this month are in September), they can be allowed to continue. But again, it is up to FIFA to decide.
Thanks @ameninaamenina wrote: Fri Mar 07, 2025 14:49The regulations are here: https://digitalhub.fifa.com/m/18d857c3e ... ion_EN.pdfKev wrote: Fri Mar 07, 2025 04:23 Does anyone know what is happening with Group E’s points structure since Congo has been suspended?
Wondering if it will be an automatic 3-0 win to the other team, or if all results from Congos’ games will be nullified
You can read Section 5: Withdrawal, unplayed matches and abandoned matches
The rules are actually quite vague. Basically all cases will be dealt with by FIFA, and they will make a decision accordingly.
Notice that unlike some other confederation such as AFC, where if a team fail to play any one match, they are immediately disqualified, no such rule is in place here. For example, Korea DPR failed to play a match against Japan, but they were simply awarded a 0-3 forfeit loss and allowed to continue.
So it is possible that should Congo fail to play their two matches in March due to FIFA suspension, then they are just given two losses, and could still stay in the competition, and if they are later reinstated (their next matches after this month are in September), they can be allowed to continue. But again, it is up to FIFA to decide.
CAS / Samuel Eto’o
THE COURT OF ARBITRATION FOR SPORT UPHOLDS THE APPEAL BY SAMUEL ETO’O AND ORDERS CAF TO INCLUDE HIS NAME ON THE LIST OF CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION TO THE CAF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
.
Lausanne, 7 March 2025 – The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has upheld an appeal by Mr Samuel Eto’o Fils (Mr Eto’o) and the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) against the exclusion of Mr Eto’o as a candidate for election to the Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Mr Eto’o and FECAFOOT appealed to CAS against CAF to annul the decisions rendered on the 24 and 25 January 2025 by CAF’s Review Sub-Committee of the Governance Committee and by the CAF Executive Committee, which deemed Mr Eto’o ineligible and excluded him from the list of CAF Executive Committee candidates for election by the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly Meeting on 12 March 2025. Following a hearing on the 3 March 2025, CAS ruled that: – – – The appeal by Mr. Samuel Eto’o Fils and FECAFOOT on 5 February 2025 against the decisions rendered on 24 and 25 January 2025 by CAF’s Review Sub-Committee of the Governance Committee and CAF’s Executive Committee is upheld. The decision by the CAF Executive Committee on 25 January 2025 to not include Mr Samuel Eto’o Fils in the list of CAF Executive Committee candidates for election by the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly Meeting on 12 March 2025 is overturned. It is ordered that the CAF Executive Committee includes Mr Samuel Eto’o Fils in the list of candidates for election to the CAF Executive Committee by the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly Meeting on 12 March 2025. The CAS Panel considered that it was presented sufficient information to overturn the CAF Executive Committee’s decision concerning Mr Eto’o’s ineligibility. It will be for the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly Meeting on 12 March 2025 to make its own evaluation of the candidates.
THE COURT OF ARBITRATION FOR SPORT UPHOLDS THE APPEAL BY SAMUEL ETO’O AND ORDERS CAF TO INCLUDE HIS NAME ON THE LIST OF CANDIDATES FOR ELECTION TO THE CAF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
.
Lausanne, 7 March 2025 – The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has upheld an appeal by Mr Samuel Eto’o Fils (Mr Eto’o) and the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) against the exclusion of Mr Eto’o as a candidate for election to the Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Mr Eto’o and FECAFOOT appealed to CAS against CAF to annul the decisions rendered on the 24 and 25 January 2025 by CAF’s Review Sub-Committee of the Governance Committee and by the CAF Executive Committee, which deemed Mr Eto’o ineligible and excluded him from the list of CAF Executive Committee candidates for election by the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly Meeting on 12 March 2025. Following a hearing on the 3 March 2025, CAS ruled that: – – – The appeal by Mr. Samuel Eto’o Fils and FECAFOOT on 5 February 2025 against the decisions rendered on 24 and 25 January 2025 by CAF’s Review Sub-Committee of the Governance Committee and CAF’s Executive Committee is upheld. The decision by the CAF Executive Committee on 25 January 2025 to not include Mr Samuel Eto’o Fils in the list of CAF Executive Committee candidates for election by the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly Meeting on 12 March 2025 is overturned. It is ordered that the CAF Executive Committee includes Mr Samuel Eto’o Fils in the list of candidates for election to the CAF Executive Committee by the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly Meeting on 12 March 2025. The CAS Panel considered that it was presented sufficient information to overturn the CAF Executive Committee’s decision concerning Mr Eto’o’s ineligibility. It will be for the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly Meeting on 12 March 2025 to make its own evaluation of the candidates.
https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/men ... march-2025
The state of play in Africa's qualifiers for World Cup 26
Published
10 Mar 2025
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March brings a return to CAF qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 26. Here is a breakdown on where things stand in the nine groups.
FIFA
CAF qualifiers for World Cup 26 approach their halfway stage
Competition is fierce across all nine groups
Egypt, Sudan, Côte d'Ivoire and Tunisia all sit top, while Nigeria are in peril
African national teams are gearing up for their fifth and sixth matchdays out of ten (except for Group E following Eritrea's exit) in the CAF qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 26™. After a lengthy intermission to make way for the CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, the continent is now back on track for the World Cup, which means it's time to look at the state of play.
Only the first-placed teams from the nine qualifying groups will advance directly to the North American showpiece, while the four best runners-up will battle it out in a second round to decide who will represent Africa at the FIFA Play-off Tournament.
CAF scores and fixtures
https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/men ... s-fixtures
Standings
https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/men ... /standings
Group A
1. Egypt | 10 pts
2. Guinea-Bissau | 6 pts
3. Burkina Faso | 5 pts
4. Sierra Leone | 5 pts
5. Ethiopia | 3 pts
6. Djibouti | 1 pt
Matchday 5 fixtures
Burkina Faso - Djibouti
Sierra Leone - Guinea-Bissau
Ethiopia - Egypt
Matchday 6 fixtures
Guinea-Bissau - Burkina Faso
Egypt - Sierra Leone
Ethiopia - Djibouti
Current form
Egypt are unbeaten as group leaders and hoping to edge closer to qualification when they travel to Ethiopia and then host Sierra Leone. The Pharaohs are the only team in the group to have already played in a World Cup, and their ranks include the competition's two joint-top scorers, Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet, with five goals apiece.
After a sluggish start to their campaign, albeit having qualified for the 2025 AFCON, Burkina Faso will be looking to bounce back when they host bottom-of-the-table Djibouti. Meanwhile, Guinea-Bissau, who held Egypt 1-1 in World Cup qualifying and Mali 0-0 in the AFCON qualifiers, are bracing themselves for a tough trip to Sierra Leone, who beat continental heavyweights Côte d'Ivoire on home soil 1-0 in the AFCON qualifiers.
Group B
1. Sudan | 10 pts
2. Senegal | 8 pts
3. DR Congo | 7 pts
4. Togo | 3 pts
5. South Sudan | 2 pts
6. Mauritania | 1 pt
Matchday 5 fixtures
DR Congo - South Sudan
Togo - Mauritania
Sudan - Senegal
Matchday 6 fixtures
Mauritania - DR Congo
Senegal - Togo
Sudan - Senegal
Current form
Since the last round of World Cup qualifiers, the top three teams in this group, Sudan, Senegal and DR Congo, have confirmed their places at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Senegal came out on top in their AFCON qualifying group, amassing an unbeaten record courtesy of three goals each from Sadio Mane and Habib Diarra. In their return to World Cup qualifying, the Lions of Teranga are poised for a crunch match against Sudan, the group's unbeaten leaders, before hosting Togo, who are still chasing their first win.
The Sparrowhawks will need a new lease of life to have any hope of playing in another World Cup after their 2006 appearance. Their group includes two other former World Cup participants: Senegal (2002, 2018, 2022) and DR Congo (in 1974 as Zaire). The latter are reeling from back-to-back defeats in the AFCON qualifiers and will be hoping to regain the upper hand on the road to the World Cup when they take on the group's bottom two sides, South Sudan and Mauritania.
Group C
1. Rwanda | 7 pts
2. South Africa | 7 pts
3. Benin | 7 pts
4. Lesotho | 5 pts
5. Nigeria | 3 pts
6. Zimbabwe | 2 pts
Matchday 5 fixtures
South Africa - Lesotho
Zimbabwe - Benin
Rwanda - Nigeria
Matchday 6 fixtures
Benin - South Africa
Nigeria - Zimbabwe
Rwanda - Lesotho
Current form
This group is fiercely competitive and features three teams sharing the lead on points, as well as four nations that have since qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in the form of South Africa, Zimbabwe, Benin and Nigeria. Last November, Rwanda won 2-1 against the Super Eagles, as Innocent Nshuti finished the AFCON qualifiers with three goals, while Nigerian duo Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen each failed to score. It is imperative for Nigeria to get back on track if they want to reach the World Cup, beginning with a visit to Rwanda followed by a home date with Zimbabwe.
As the only team in the group, along with Nigeria, to have reached a World Cup finals, South Africa have already qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations with four wins and two draws. Bafana Bafana managed to rack up 16 goals in six games, including three from Teboho Mokoena, the Mamelodi Sundowns FC midfielder who is set to play in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ in June. South Africa resume World Cup qualifying with a home clash against Lesotho and an away encounter at Benin.
Group D
1. Cameroon | 8 pts
2. Libya | 7 pts
3. Cabo Verde | 7 pts
4. Angola | 6 pts
5. Mauritius | 4 pts
6. Eswatini | 0 pts
Matchday 5 fixtures
Cabo Verde - Mauritius
Libya - Angola
Eswatini - Cameroon
Matchday 6 fixtures
Angola - Cabo Verde
Cameroon - Libya
Eswatini - Mauritius
Current form
Cameroon have a one-point lead over the chasing pack, but their form remains considerably better than that of Libya and Cabo Verde. The Indomitable Lions dominated their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying group, finishing unbeaten courtesy of three goals from Vincent Aboubakar, while Libya and Cabo Verde were bottom of their respective groups.
Cameroon hold the African record for the most appearances at the World Cup finals with eight, and a trip to bottom-placed Eswatini without a single point, could see them pull away in the standings before hosting second place Libya. The only other country to have played in a World Cup, Angola won their group in the AFCON qualifiers in unbeaten fashion. Now they take on two of the teams above them in the race for a place at World Cup 26, Libya and Cabo Verde, and if they keep up their fine form, the Palancas Negras could leapfrog them both.
Meanwhile, Mauritius will be keen to put their 3-1 aggregate defeat to Chad in the preliminary round of their continental competition behind them and climb back into the top three.
Group E
1. Morocco | 9 pts
2. Niger | 6 pts
3. Tanzania | 6 pts
4. Zambia | 3 pts
5. Congo | 0 pts
Group E is made up of just five teams, following Eritrea's withdrawal from the qualifiers in November 2023.
Matchday 5 fixtures
Niger - Morocco
Matchday 6 fixtures
Morocco - Tanzania
Current form
Morocco have been unbeaten for the last year since being knocked out in the round of 16 by South Africa, 2-0, in the 2023 AFCON. They have won all their matches in this group, just as they did in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, which helped the Atlas Lions prepare for the finals having already qualified as hosts. All six of their matches ended in victories, largely thanks to seven goals from Brahim Diaz and three each from Youssef En-Nesyri and Soufiane Rahimi. As the only team in the group to have already played in a World Cup finals, Morocco can go one better in their bid for a seventh appearance when they take on their two closest challengers, Niger and Tanzania.
The Nigeriens will be eager to pick themselves up after their elimination in the AFCON qualifiers, during which Tanzania won two crucial matches to finish second behind DR Congo. Meanwhile, Zambia have now gone five matches unbeaten, including a 1-0 win over Côte d'Ivoire thanks to a goal from Kennedy Musonda, who has found the net in four of his side's last five matches.
Group F
1. Côte d’Ivoire | 10 pts
2. Gabon | 9 pts
3. Burundi | 7 pts
4. Kenya | 5 pts
5. Gambia | 3 pts
6. Seychelles | 0 pts
Matchday 5 fixtures
Gabon - Seychelles
Gambia - Kenya
Burundi - Côte d’Ivoire
Matchday 6 fixtures
Kenya - Gabon
Côte d’Ivoire - Gambia
Burundi - Seychelles
Current form
The Elephants successfully negotiated their way through the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers by finishing second in their group, with three goals from Jean-Philippe Krasso and Oumar Diakite. They have the opportunity to stretch their lead at the top of the World Cup qualifying standings against two teams who did not qualify for the AFCON, Burundi and Gambia, the latter having finished with a 1-0 win over Tunisia.
Gabon share the same ambition, as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and his team-mates play host to Seychelles, who did not take part in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, followed by a date with a Kenya side who failed to make it out of the group stage.
Group G
1. Algeria | 9 pts
2. Mozambique | 9 pts
3. Botswana | 6 pts
4. Guinea | 6 pts
5. Uganda | 6 pts
6. Somalia | 0 pts
Matchday 5 fixtures
Guinea - Somalia
Mozambique - Uganda
Botswana - Algeria
Matchday 6 fixtures
Uganda - Guinea
Algeria - Mozambique
Botswana - Somalia
Current form
Algeria are the only nation in this group to have already played in a World Cup, and they achieved a near flawless record in their AFCON qualifiers, finishing first with five wins from six matches, helped considerably by Amine Gouiri's four goals. In the World Cup qualifiers, the Fennecs will be up against two of the other three teams to have qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations, Botswana, who held Egypt to a 2-2 draw in November, and Mozambique.
The third to qualify was Uganda, who first meet Mozambique in a crucial contest, before taking on a Guinea team that failed to qualify for AFCON 2025 despite Serhou Guirassy's six goals. Meanwhile, Somalia will be on the search for their first victory, with visits to Guinea and Botswana.
Group H
1. Tunisia | 10 pts
2. Namibia | 8 pts
3. Liberia | 7 pts
4. Malawi | 6 pts
5. Equatorial Guinea | 3 pts
6. São Tomé and Príncipe | 0 pts
Matchday 5 fixtures
Equatorial Guinea - São Tomé and Príncipe
Malawi - Namibia
Liberia - Tunisia
Matchday 6 fixtures
Namibia - Equatorial Guinea
Tunisia - Malawi
Liberia - São Tomé and Príncipe
Current form
Tunisia are the only team in the group alongside Equatorial Guinea to have qualified for the 2025 AFCON, and can edge closer to a seventh appearance at the World Cup should they prevail against two teams who finished bottom of their groups in the AFCON qualifiers, Liberia and Malawi. Meanwhile, the Equatoguineans look to bounce back against a São Tomé and Príncipe side desperate for their first point and who were eliminated in the preliminary round of the AFCON qualifiers. Equatorial Guinea will then face second-place Namibia, who are on the back of two encouraging performances in AFCON qualifying, including a goalless draw with Cameroon.
Group I
1. Comoros | 9 pts
2. Ghana | 9 pts
3. Madagascar | 7 pts
4. Mali | 5 pts
5. Central African Republic | 4 pts
6. Chad | 0 pts
Matchday 5 fixtures
Ghana - Chad
Central African Republic - Madagascar
Comoros - Mali
Matchday 6 fixtures
Madagascar - Ghana
Central African Republic - Mali
Comoros - Chad
Current form
Comoros consolidated their impressive run of results by claiming top spot in their AFCON qualifying group, where they crossed paths twice with Madagascar, earning a 1-1 draw and a 1-0 win. ES Troyes team-mates Ismael Boura and Rafiki Said had a hand in the team's group success with two goals each. In their return to World Cup qualifying, Comoros face Mali, who are faring much better after finishing their continental qualifiers unbeaten, culminating in a resounding 6-0 win over Eswatini, with Kamory Doumbia registering a brace.
The other four teams finished bottom of their groups, including Ghana, who are the only country in Group I to have already taken part in a World Cup. Ghana will attempt to usurp Comoros atop the table when they host last place Chad, followed by a trip to Madagascar.
The state of play in Africa's qualifiers for World Cup 26
Published
10 Mar 2025
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March brings a return to CAF qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 26. Here is a breakdown on where things stand in the nine groups.
FIFA
CAF qualifiers for World Cup 26 approach their halfway stage
Competition is fierce across all nine groups
Egypt, Sudan, Côte d'Ivoire and Tunisia all sit top, while Nigeria are in peril
African national teams are gearing up for their fifth and sixth matchdays out of ten (except for Group E following Eritrea's exit) in the CAF qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 26™. After a lengthy intermission to make way for the CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, the continent is now back on track for the World Cup, which means it's time to look at the state of play.
Only the first-placed teams from the nine qualifying groups will advance directly to the North American showpiece, while the four best runners-up will battle it out in a second round to decide who will represent Africa at the FIFA Play-off Tournament.
CAF scores and fixtures
https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/men ... s-fixtures
Standings
https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/men ... /standings
Group A
1. Egypt | 10 pts
2. Guinea-Bissau | 6 pts
3. Burkina Faso | 5 pts
4. Sierra Leone | 5 pts
5. Ethiopia | 3 pts
6. Djibouti | 1 pt
Matchday 5 fixtures
Burkina Faso - Djibouti
Sierra Leone - Guinea-Bissau
Ethiopia - Egypt
Matchday 6 fixtures
Guinea-Bissau - Burkina Faso
Egypt - Sierra Leone
Ethiopia - Djibouti
Current form
Egypt are unbeaten as group leaders and hoping to edge closer to qualification when they travel to Ethiopia and then host Sierra Leone. The Pharaohs are the only team in the group to have already played in a World Cup, and their ranks include the competition's two joint-top scorers, Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet, with five goals apiece.
After a sluggish start to their campaign, albeit having qualified for the 2025 AFCON, Burkina Faso will be looking to bounce back when they host bottom-of-the-table Djibouti. Meanwhile, Guinea-Bissau, who held Egypt 1-1 in World Cup qualifying and Mali 0-0 in the AFCON qualifiers, are bracing themselves for a tough trip to Sierra Leone, who beat continental heavyweights Côte d'Ivoire on home soil 1-0 in the AFCON qualifiers.
Group B
1. Sudan | 10 pts
2. Senegal | 8 pts
3. DR Congo | 7 pts
4. Togo | 3 pts
5. South Sudan | 2 pts
6. Mauritania | 1 pt
Matchday 5 fixtures
DR Congo - South Sudan
Togo - Mauritania
Sudan - Senegal
Matchday 6 fixtures
Mauritania - DR Congo
Senegal - Togo
Sudan - Senegal
Current form
Since the last round of World Cup qualifiers, the top three teams in this group, Sudan, Senegal and DR Congo, have confirmed their places at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Senegal came out on top in their AFCON qualifying group, amassing an unbeaten record courtesy of three goals each from Sadio Mane and Habib Diarra. In their return to World Cup qualifying, the Lions of Teranga are poised for a crunch match against Sudan, the group's unbeaten leaders, before hosting Togo, who are still chasing their first win.
The Sparrowhawks will need a new lease of life to have any hope of playing in another World Cup after their 2006 appearance. Their group includes two other former World Cup participants: Senegal (2002, 2018, 2022) and DR Congo (in 1974 as Zaire). The latter are reeling from back-to-back defeats in the AFCON qualifiers and will be hoping to regain the upper hand on the road to the World Cup when they take on the group's bottom two sides, South Sudan and Mauritania.
Group C
1. Rwanda | 7 pts
2. South Africa | 7 pts
3. Benin | 7 pts
4. Lesotho | 5 pts
5. Nigeria | 3 pts
6. Zimbabwe | 2 pts
Matchday 5 fixtures
South Africa - Lesotho
Zimbabwe - Benin
Rwanda - Nigeria
Matchday 6 fixtures
Benin - South Africa
Nigeria - Zimbabwe
Rwanda - Lesotho
Current form
This group is fiercely competitive and features three teams sharing the lead on points, as well as four nations that have since qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in the form of South Africa, Zimbabwe, Benin and Nigeria. Last November, Rwanda won 2-1 against the Super Eagles, as Innocent Nshuti finished the AFCON qualifiers with three goals, while Nigerian duo Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen each failed to score. It is imperative for Nigeria to get back on track if they want to reach the World Cup, beginning with a visit to Rwanda followed by a home date with Zimbabwe.
As the only team in the group, along with Nigeria, to have reached a World Cup finals, South Africa have already qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations with four wins and two draws. Bafana Bafana managed to rack up 16 goals in six games, including three from Teboho Mokoena, the Mamelodi Sundowns FC midfielder who is set to play in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ in June. South Africa resume World Cup qualifying with a home clash against Lesotho and an away encounter at Benin.
Group D
1. Cameroon | 8 pts
2. Libya | 7 pts
3. Cabo Verde | 7 pts
4. Angola | 6 pts
5. Mauritius | 4 pts
6. Eswatini | 0 pts
Matchday 5 fixtures
Cabo Verde - Mauritius
Libya - Angola
Eswatini - Cameroon
Matchday 6 fixtures
Angola - Cabo Verde
Cameroon - Libya
Eswatini - Mauritius
Current form
Cameroon have a one-point lead over the chasing pack, but their form remains considerably better than that of Libya and Cabo Verde. The Indomitable Lions dominated their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying group, finishing unbeaten courtesy of three goals from Vincent Aboubakar, while Libya and Cabo Verde were bottom of their respective groups.
Cameroon hold the African record for the most appearances at the World Cup finals with eight, and a trip to bottom-placed Eswatini without a single point, could see them pull away in the standings before hosting second place Libya. The only other country to have played in a World Cup, Angola won their group in the AFCON qualifiers in unbeaten fashion. Now they take on two of the teams above them in the race for a place at World Cup 26, Libya and Cabo Verde, and if they keep up their fine form, the Palancas Negras could leapfrog them both.
Meanwhile, Mauritius will be keen to put their 3-1 aggregate defeat to Chad in the preliminary round of their continental competition behind them and climb back into the top three.
Group E
1. Morocco | 9 pts
2. Niger | 6 pts
3. Tanzania | 6 pts
4. Zambia | 3 pts
5. Congo | 0 pts
Group E is made up of just five teams, following Eritrea's withdrawal from the qualifiers in November 2023.
Matchday 5 fixtures
Niger - Morocco
Matchday 6 fixtures
Morocco - Tanzania
Current form
Morocco have been unbeaten for the last year since being knocked out in the round of 16 by South Africa, 2-0, in the 2023 AFCON. They have won all their matches in this group, just as they did in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, which helped the Atlas Lions prepare for the finals having already qualified as hosts. All six of their matches ended in victories, largely thanks to seven goals from Brahim Diaz and three each from Youssef En-Nesyri and Soufiane Rahimi. As the only team in the group to have already played in a World Cup finals, Morocco can go one better in their bid for a seventh appearance when they take on their two closest challengers, Niger and Tanzania.
The Nigeriens will be eager to pick themselves up after their elimination in the AFCON qualifiers, during which Tanzania won two crucial matches to finish second behind DR Congo. Meanwhile, Zambia have now gone five matches unbeaten, including a 1-0 win over Côte d'Ivoire thanks to a goal from Kennedy Musonda, who has found the net in four of his side's last five matches.
Group F
1. Côte d’Ivoire | 10 pts
2. Gabon | 9 pts
3. Burundi | 7 pts
4. Kenya | 5 pts
5. Gambia | 3 pts
6. Seychelles | 0 pts
Matchday 5 fixtures
Gabon - Seychelles
Gambia - Kenya
Burundi - Côte d’Ivoire
Matchday 6 fixtures
Kenya - Gabon
Côte d’Ivoire - Gambia
Burundi - Seychelles
Current form
The Elephants successfully negotiated their way through the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers by finishing second in their group, with three goals from Jean-Philippe Krasso and Oumar Diakite. They have the opportunity to stretch their lead at the top of the World Cup qualifying standings against two teams who did not qualify for the AFCON, Burundi and Gambia, the latter having finished with a 1-0 win over Tunisia.
Gabon share the same ambition, as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and his team-mates play host to Seychelles, who did not take part in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, followed by a date with a Kenya side who failed to make it out of the group stage.
Group G
1. Algeria | 9 pts
2. Mozambique | 9 pts
3. Botswana | 6 pts
4. Guinea | 6 pts
5. Uganda | 6 pts
6. Somalia | 0 pts
Matchday 5 fixtures
Guinea - Somalia
Mozambique - Uganda
Botswana - Algeria
Matchday 6 fixtures
Uganda - Guinea
Algeria - Mozambique
Botswana - Somalia
Current form
Algeria are the only nation in this group to have already played in a World Cup, and they achieved a near flawless record in their AFCON qualifiers, finishing first with five wins from six matches, helped considerably by Amine Gouiri's four goals. In the World Cup qualifiers, the Fennecs will be up against two of the other three teams to have qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations, Botswana, who held Egypt to a 2-2 draw in November, and Mozambique.
The third to qualify was Uganda, who first meet Mozambique in a crucial contest, before taking on a Guinea team that failed to qualify for AFCON 2025 despite Serhou Guirassy's six goals. Meanwhile, Somalia will be on the search for their first victory, with visits to Guinea and Botswana.
Group H
1. Tunisia | 10 pts
2. Namibia | 8 pts
3. Liberia | 7 pts
4. Malawi | 6 pts
5. Equatorial Guinea | 3 pts
6. São Tomé and Príncipe | 0 pts
Matchday 5 fixtures
Equatorial Guinea - São Tomé and Príncipe
Malawi - Namibia
Liberia - Tunisia
Matchday 6 fixtures
Namibia - Equatorial Guinea
Tunisia - Malawi
Liberia - São Tomé and Príncipe
Current form
Tunisia are the only team in the group alongside Equatorial Guinea to have qualified for the 2025 AFCON, and can edge closer to a seventh appearance at the World Cup should they prevail against two teams who finished bottom of their groups in the AFCON qualifiers, Liberia and Malawi. Meanwhile, the Equatoguineans look to bounce back against a São Tomé and Príncipe side desperate for their first point and who were eliminated in the preliminary round of the AFCON qualifiers. Equatorial Guinea will then face second-place Namibia, who are on the back of two encouraging performances in AFCON qualifying, including a goalless draw with Cameroon.
Group I
1. Comoros | 9 pts
2. Ghana | 9 pts
3. Madagascar | 7 pts
4. Mali | 5 pts
5. Central African Republic | 4 pts
6. Chad | 0 pts
Matchday 5 fixtures
Ghana - Chad
Central African Republic - Madagascar
Comoros - Mali
Matchday 6 fixtures
Madagascar - Ghana
Central African Republic - Mali
Comoros - Chad
Current form
Comoros consolidated their impressive run of results by claiming top spot in their AFCON qualifying group, where they crossed paths twice with Madagascar, earning a 1-1 draw and a 1-0 win. ES Troyes team-mates Ismael Boura and Rafiki Said had a hand in the team's group success with two goals each. In their return to World Cup qualifying, Comoros face Mali, who are faring much better after finishing their continental qualifiers unbeaten, culminating in a resounding 6-0 win over Eswatini, with Kamory Doumbia registering a brace.
The other four teams finished bottom of their groups, including Ghana, who are the only country in Group I to have already taken part in a World Cup. Ghana will attempt to usurp Comoros atop the table when they host last place Chad, followed by a trip to Madagascar.
Last edited by amenina on Tue Mar 18, 2025 06:14, edited 2 times in total.
https://libyaobserver.ly/sports/libyan- ... -team-role
Libyan Football Federation agrees deal with Senegalese Aliou Cissé for first team role
The Vice President of the Libyan Federation, Fawzi Jaouda, said that the Federation entered into intensive negotiations with Aliou Cissé, the former technical director of the Senegalese national team, to take over the role of the coach of the national team.
Jaouda added, in a press statement, that the broad outlines of the contract haf been agreed upon between the two parties, while some details remain before the official announcement of his appointment as technical director of the Mediterranean Knights.
The Libyan Federation official said that an agreement has also been reached with Aliou Cissé to supervise the youth and junior teams, in addition to his duties as technical director of the first team. He explained that Aliou Cisse is expected to arrive in Libya on March 5, and he will choose the members of his assistant staff, while the Libyan Federation retains the right to appoint an assistant coach to the staff.
Libyan Football Federation agrees deal with Senegalese Aliou Cissé for first team role
The Vice President of the Libyan Federation, Fawzi Jaouda, said that the Federation entered into intensive negotiations with Aliou Cissé, the former technical director of the Senegalese national team, to take over the role of the coach of the national team.
Jaouda added, in a press statement, that the broad outlines of the contract haf been agreed upon between the two parties, while some details remain before the official announcement of his appointment as technical director of the Mediterranean Knights.
The Libyan Federation official said that an agreement has also been reached with Aliou Cissé to supervise the youth and junior teams, in addition to his duties as technical director of the first team. He explained that Aliou Cisse is expected to arrive in Libya on March 5, and he will choose the members of his assistant staff, while the Libyan Federation retains the right to appoint an assistant coach to the staff.
https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/men ... ch-changes
Coaching shake-up adds intrigue ahead of African qualifiers
Published
13 Mar 2025
Share
When the CAF qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 26 resume on 19 March, many teams will have new faces in the dugout.
FIFA
Senegal, Nigeria, Tunisia and many others have appointed new coaches
Aliou Cisse takes charge of Libya after being shown the door at Senegal
Eric Chelle hopes to take flight with Super Eagles after Mali exit
When the CAF qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 26™ resume next week, it will have been more than nine months since the previous round of the campaign. Since last summer, many African countries have changed their coaches in an attempt to secure participation at the showpiece tournament, which is being held in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
In the run-up to the fifth and sixth qualifying matchdays, FIFA takes a deep dive into this African coaching merry-go-round.
Cisse quickly finds new challenge
Despite sitting pretty in second place in Group B, Senegal made huge headlines last October when Aliou Cisse was shown the door after nine years in charge of the Lions of Teranga. The Cisse era saw the team crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions in 2021 after failing in the final two years beforehand, and also saw them participate in the last two World Cups (with a round-of-16 place secured in Qatar 2022).
Pape Thiaw, hero of the 2002 campaign in Korea Republic and Japan, has taken over as coach to make it three World Cup appearances on the trot. Meanwhile, Cisse wasted no time in finding a new challenge. On 11 March, he officially pledged his services to Libya, who are second in Group D.
Many other coaches lost their jobs due to lacklustre form. The long break in World Cup qualifiers saw them all focus on the qualifying campaign for the Africa Cup of Nations 2025. While Senegal made it safely through to the finals in Morocco, this was obviously not the case for every nation.
AFCON qualifiers force changes
Kaba Diawara could not prevent Guinea from being knocked out of the AFCON qualifers and was replaced by Michel Dussuyer, who has already had two spells in the hot seat of the national team, as well as stints in the dugouts of Benin and Cote d'Ivoire. Similarly in Togo, their football association opted for Dare Nibombe, one of the players who represented the Sparrowhawks in Germany 2006, to replace the outgoing Paulo Duarte.
The end of the road also beckoned for Romuald Rakotondrabe, who was replaced by Corentin Martins on the Madagascar touchline. Caretaker Ibrahim Zakariyaou also saw former Moroccan international Badou Zaki step in to succeed him at the helm of Niger, both of whom failed to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations. Mauritania's failure to reach Morocco also spelled the end for Amir Abdou, who was replaced by coach Aritz Lopez Garai, head of the U-20 national team until then.
Chelle looks to take flight with Super Eagles
Eric Chelle is one of the main protagonists in this merry-go-round of changes. Recently in charge of Mali, the former Valenciennes FC player has been replaced by Tom Saintfiet, a highly experienced Belgian coach who has coached on three continents. After leaving the Malians in fourth place in Group I, Chelle will continue the qualifying campaign, albeit on Nigeria's bench.
From all the continent's favourites to book their ticket to North America, the Super Eagles have got off to the worst start, having slipped alarmingly into fifth place in Group C after failing to win any of their first four matches. Chelle is following in the footsteps of Jose Peseiro and Finidi George in this qualifying campaign.
The Central African Republic also hope to get back on track after a slow start to World Cup qualifying and an unsuccessful attempt to reach the Africa Cup of Nations. Currently fifth in Group I, the Fauves de Bas-Oubangui have placed their faith in the experienced Rigobert Song. The coach behind Cameroon's historic win over Brazil in Qatar 2022, succeeds Raoul Savoy, following Eloge Enza Yamissi's interim role.
Other coaching changes
In Botswana, Didier Gomes has stepped down and been replaced by two-time Botswana league champion Morena Ramoreboli, the South African coach of Jwaneng Galaxy.
Etienne Ndayiragije has left the Burundi bench and made way for his former assistant at The Swallows, Patrick Mayani Sangwa.
Marc Brys was appointed Cameroon coach, following Song's departure. This marks the first time the Belgian coach, who has travelled extensively in his native country, the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia, has been put in charge of a national team.
Eswatini has also brought in a new coach, parting company with Dominic Kunene and handing the reins to Zdravko Logarusic, previously in charge of Sudan and Zimbabwe.
Ex-South African international Benni McCarthy has been chosen as Kenya's new coach. He has replaced Francis Kimanzi, who had stepped in as interim coach following the departure of Engin Firat late last year.
Meanwhile, in Lesotho, Veselin Jelusic has replaced Leslie Notsi. The Serbian coach brings a wealth of experience, having previously coached Angola and Botswana.
Thomas Kojo has been appointed interim coach of Liberia and has begun his fifth spell in charge of the Lone Stars, following Mario Marinica's exit.
Coached by Jalel Kadri for its first two matches in Group H, now top of the group, and then by Montasser Louhichi for the next two, Tunisia welcomed back Sami Trabelsi to the bench.
Finally, Zimbabwe's interim coach Baltemar Brito was not given a contract extension and has been replaced by Michael Nees, who has previously overseen the Seychelles and Rwanda.
Coaching shake-up adds intrigue ahead of African qualifiers
Published
13 Mar 2025
Share
When the CAF qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 26 resume on 19 March, many teams will have new faces in the dugout.
FIFA
Senegal, Nigeria, Tunisia and many others have appointed new coaches
Aliou Cisse takes charge of Libya after being shown the door at Senegal
Eric Chelle hopes to take flight with Super Eagles after Mali exit
When the CAF qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 26™ resume next week, it will have been more than nine months since the previous round of the campaign. Since last summer, many African countries have changed their coaches in an attempt to secure participation at the showpiece tournament, which is being held in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
In the run-up to the fifth and sixth qualifying matchdays, FIFA takes a deep dive into this African coaching merry-go-round.
Cisse quickly finds new challenge
Despite sitting pretty in second place in Group B, Senegal made huge headlines last October when Aliou Cisse was shown the door after nine years in charge of the Lions of Teranga. The Cisse era saw the team crowned Africa Cup of Nations champions in 2021 after failing in the final two years beforehand, and also saw them participate in the last two World Cups (with a round-of-16 place secured in Qatar 2022).
Pape Thiaw, hero of the 2002 campaign in Korea Republic and Japan, has taken over as coach to make it three World Cup appearances on the trot. Meanwhile, Cisse wasted no time in finding a new challenge. On 11 March, he officially pledged his services to Libya, who are second in Group D.
Many other coaches lost their jobs due to lacklustre form. The long break in World Cup qualifiers saw them all focus on the qualifying campaign for the Africa Cup of Nations 2025. While Senegal made it safely through to the finals in Morocco, this was obviously not the case for every nation.
AFCON qualifiers force changes
Kaba Diawara could not prevent Guinea from being knocked out of the AFCON qualifers and was replaced by Michel Dussuyer, who has already had two spells in the hot seat of the national team, as well as stints in the dugouts of Benin and Cote d'Ivoire. Similarly in Togo, their football association opted for Dare Nibombe, one of the players who represented the Sparrowhawks in Germany 2006, to replace the outgoing Paulo Duarte.
The end of the road also beckoned for Romuald Rakotondrabe, who was replaced by Corentin Martins on the Madagascar touchline. Caretaker Ibrahim Zakariyaou also saw former Moroccan international Badou Zaki step in to succeed him at the helm of Niger, both of whom failed to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations. Mauritania's failure to reach Morocco also spelled the end for Amir Abdou, who was replaced by coach Aritz Lopez Garai, head of the U-20 national team until then.
Chelle looks to take flight with Super Eagles
Eric Chelle is one of the main protagonists in this merry-go-round of changes. Recently in charge of Mali, the former Valenciennes FC player has been replaced by Tom Saintfiet, a highly experienced Belgian coach who has coached on three continents. After leaving the Malians in fourth place in Group I, Chelle will continue the qualifying campaign, albeit on Nigeria's bench.
From all the continent's favourites to book their ticket to North America, the Super Eagles have got off to the worst start, having slipped alarmingly into fifth place in Group C after failing to win any of their first four matches. Chelle is following in the footsteps of Jose Peseiro and Finidi George in this qualifying campaign.
The Central African Republic also hope to get back on track after a slow start to World Cup qualifying and an unsuccessful attempt to reach the Africa Cup of Nations. Currently fifth in Group I, the Fauves de Bas-Oubangui have placed their faith in the experienced Rigobert Song. The coach behind Cameroon's historic win over Brazil in Qatar 2022, succeeds Raoul Savoy, following Eloge Enza Yamissi's interim role.
Other coaching changes
In Botswana, Didier Gomes has stepped down and been replaced by two-time Botswana league champion Morena Ramoreboli, the South African coach of Jwaneng Galaxy.
Etienne Ndayiragije has left the Burundi bench and made way for his former assistant at The Swallows, Patrick Mayani Sangwa.
Marc Brys was appointed Cameroon coach, following Song's departure. This marks the first time the Belgian coach, who has travelled extensively in his native country, the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia, has been put in charge of a national team.
Eswatini has also brought in a new coach, parting company with Dominic Kunene and handing the reins to Zdravko Logarusic, previously in charge of Sudan and Zimbabwe.
Ex-South African international Benni McCarthy has been chosen as Kenya's new coach. He has replaced Francis Kimanzi, who had stepped in as interim coach following the departure of Engin Firat late last year.
Meanwhile, in Lesotho, Veselin Jelusic has replaced Leslie Notsi. The Serbian coach brings a wealth of experience, having previously coached Angola and Botswana.
Thomas Kojo has been appointed interim coach of Liberia and has begun his fifth spell in charge of the Lone Stars, following Mario Marinica's exit.
Coached by Jalel Kadri for its first two matches in Group H, now top of the group, and then by Montasser Louhichi for the next two, Tunisia welcomed back Sami Trabelsi to the bench.
Finally, Zimbabwe's interim coach Baltemar Brito was not given a contract extension and has been replaced by Michael Nees, who has previously overseen the Seychelles and Rwanda.
It seems odd that they haven't any rules in place to deal with the group E situation since only the best runners-up reach the play-off round. There are now 2 teams missing with Eritrea withdrawing, meaning that the runner-up is effectively out unless they exclude games against the 6th and 5th teams.
Congo have not been completely disqualified yet by FIFA, even though they will not be able to play the two matches in March. Likely FIFA will hand them two 0-3 defeats, and then wait and see if they will be reinstated to complete the fixtures in September and October.JohnHarts wrote: Thu Mar 13, 2025 17:27 It seems odd that they haven't any rules in place to deal with the group E situation since only the best runners-up reach the play-off round. There are now 2 teams missing with Eritrea withdrawing, meaning that the runner-up is effectively out unless they exclude games against the 6th and 5th teams.
But how are they dealing with the withdrawal of Eritrea? It doesn't seem like they're excluding the results against the 6th team, which gives the Group E runner-up a huge disadvantage.amenina wrote: Thu Mar 13, 2025 17:32Congo have not been completely disqualified yet by FIFA, even though they will not be able to play the two matches in March. Likely FIFA will hand them two 0-3 defeats, and then wait and see if they will be reinstated to complete the fixtures in September and October.JohnHarts wrote: Thu Mar 13, 2025 17:27 It seems odd that they haven't any rules in place to deal with the group E situation since only the best runners-up reach the play-off round. There are now 2 teams missing with Eritrea withdrawing, meaning that the runner-up is effectively out unless they exclude games against the 6th and 5th teams.
It has not been specified officially by FIFA, but the precedent in WCQ is to remove the bottom place team(s) if the groups have different number of teams when comparing group runners-up.JohnHarts wrote: Thu Mar 13, 2025 17:43But how are they dealing with the withdrawal of Eritrea? It doesn't seem like they're excluding the results against the 6th team, which gives the Group E runner-up a huge disadvantage.amenina wrote: Thu Mar 13, 2025 17:32Congo have not been completely disqualified yet by FIFA, even though they will not be able to play the two matches in March. Likely FIFA will hand them two 0-3 defeats, and then wait and see if they will be reinstated to complete the fixtures in September and October.JohnHarts wrote: Thu Mar 13, 2025 17:27 It seems odd that they haven't any rules in place to deal with the group E situation since only the best runners-up reach the play-off round. There are now 2 teams missing with Eritrea withdrawing, meaning that the runner-up is effectively out unless they exclude games against the 6th and 5th teams.
Last time in 2022 WCQ Asia 2nd round, DPR Korea withdrew midway due to COVID. The group only had 4 teams left after their results were annulled, while all other 7 groups had 5 teams. To decide the 4 best runners-up which would advance to the 3rd round, the results against the 5th place team were not considered.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2022_FIFA ... r-up_teams
https://www.cafonline.com/news/match-da ... iers-race/
Match Day 5 lines up appetising ties in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers race
Published: Sunday, 16 March 2025
The race towards a place in next year’s FIFA World Cup enters a crucial stage as of Monday, 17 March when the African qualifiers resume across the continent.
The global showpiece will for the first time have a guaranteed 9 representatives and possibly a tenth in the newly expanded version set to take place in the United States between 11 June – 19 July 2026.
With four rounds of matches already played, Match Day 5 of the qualifiers has lined up some appetising encounters, as the race to a top finish that guarantees qualification gradually takes shape.
The action officially gets underway in Group E on Monday, 16 March when third placed Tanzania play host to Congo who are yet to register a point in their past three matches.
Four exciting fixtures take place on Wednesday, 19 March with Liberia taking on top of the table Tunisia in Group H.
Cameroon will be looking at extending their lead in Group D when they take on bottom of the table Eswatini, while Central Africa Republic look to climb up the group when they take on third placed Madagascar.
Thursday, 20 March sees a total of nine mouth-watering encounters taking place across the continent. Some of the marquee fixtures to look out for on include Zimbabwe playing host to Benin, Malawi welcoming the Brave Warriors of Namibia who have had an impressive start so far, as well as Cape Verde taking on Mauritius.
Later on in the evening, Libya will be home to Angola in the tightly contested Group D, while the Eagles of Mali travel to Comoros to conclude Thursday’s fixtures.
Match Day 5 of the qualifiers concludes on Friday, 21 March with a total of 13 fixtures taking place.
With three draws and a loss to their campaign, the Super Eagles will be looking at securing their first win when they take on top of the table Rwanda in Group C. South Africa play host to Lesotho in the same group, as they eye a vital victory that could see them top the group should the result in the Nigeria and Rwanda match go their way.
In other exciting fixture to look out for, Group A leaders Egypt have a tough assignment travel to Ethiopia who are desperate for a win following three draws and a loss.
African champions, Cote d’Ivoire who lead Group F by a narrow point ahead of Gabon face third placed Burundi are also within reach of a top spot.
The Lions of Teranga will be aiming at nothing short of a victory to possibly go top of Group B ahead of Sudan when they face each other in what promises to be an explosive top of the table encounter on Friday.
FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Fixtures - Match Day 5:
Monday, 17 March
16h00 GMT: Tanzania vs Congo
Wednesday, 19 March
16h00 GMT: Liberia vs Tunisia
16h00 GMT: Eswatini vs Cameroon
16h00 GMT: Central African Republic vs Madagascar
16h00 GMT: Mozambique vs Uganda
16h00 GMT: Malawi vs Namibia
16h00 GMT: Zimbabwe vs Benin
16h00 GMT: Cape Verde vs Mauritius
16h00 GMT: Sierra Leone vs Guinea-Bissau
Thursday, 20 March
19h00 GMT: Libya vs Angola
19h00 GMT: Gabon vs Seychelles
19h00 GMT: Gambia vs Kenya
19h00 GMT: Comoros vs Mali
Friday, 21 March
13h00 GMT: Equatorial Guinea vs Sao Tomé and Principe
13h00 GMT: Botswana vs Algeria
16h00 GMT: Rwanda vs Nigeria
16h00 GMT: Burkina Faso vs Djibouti
16h00 GMT: DR Congo vs South Sudan
16h00 GMT: South Africa vs Lesotho
16h00 GMT: Togo vs Mauritania
19h00 GMT: Ghana vs Chad
19h00 GMT: Burundi vs Cote d’Ivoire
19h00 GMT: Sudan vs Senegal
21h00 GMT: Guinea vs Somalia
21h00 GMT: Ethiopia vs Egypt
21h00 GMT: Niger vs Morocco
Match Day 5 lines up appetising ties in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers race
Published: Sunday, 16 March 2025
The race towards a place in next year’s FIFA World Cup enters a crucial stage as of Monday, 17 March when the African qualifiers resume across the continent.
The global showpiece will for the first time have a guaranteed 9 representatives and possibly a tenth in the newly expanded version set to take place in the United States between 11 June – 19 July 2026.
With four rounds of matches already played, Match Day 5 of the qualifiers has lined up some appetising encounters, as the race to a top finish that guarantees qualification gradually takes shape.
The action officially gets underway in Group E on Monday, 16 March when third placed Tanzania play host to Congo who are yet to register a point in their past three matches.
Four exciting fixtures take place on Wednesday, 19 March with Liberia taking on top of the table Tunisia in Group H.
Cameroon will be looking at extending their lead in Group D when they take on bottom of the table Eswatini, while Central Africa Republic look to climb up the group when they take on third placed Madagascar.
Thursday, 20 March sees a total of nine mouth-watering encounters taking place across the continent. Some of the marquee fixtures to look out for on include Zimbabwe playing host to Benin, Malawi welcoming the Brave Warriors of Namibia who have had an impressive start so far, as well as Cape Verde taking on Mauritius.
Later on in the evening, Libya will be home to Angola in the tightly contested Group D, while the Eagles of Mali travel to Comoros to conclude Thursday’s fixtures.
Match Day 5 of the qualifiers concludes on Friday, 21 March with a total of 13 fixtures taking place.
With three draws and a loss to their campaign, the Super Eagles will be looking at securing their first win when they take on top of the table Rwanda in Group C. South Africa play host to Lesotho in the same group, as they eye a vital victory that could see them top the group should the result in the Nigeria and Rwanda match go their way.
In other exciting fixture to look out for, Group A leaders Egypt have a tough assignment travel to Ethiopia who are desperate for a win following three draws and a loss.
African champions, Cote d’Ivoire who lead Group F by a narrow point ahead of Gabon face third placed Burundi are also within reach of a top spot.
The Lions of Teranga will be aiming at nothing short of a victory to possibly go top of Group B ahead of Sudan when they face each other in what promises to be an explosive top of the table encounter on Friday.
FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Fixtures - Match Day 5:
Monday, 17 March
16h00 GMT: Tanzania vs Congo
Wednesday, 19 March
16h00 GMT: Liberia vs Tunisia
16h00 GMT: Eswatini vs Cameroon
16h00 GMT: Central African Republic vs Madagascar
16h00 GMT: Mozambique vs Uganda
16h00 GMT: Malawi vs Namibia
16h00 GMT: Zimbabwe vs Benin
16h00 GMT: Cape Verde vs Mauritius
16h00 GMT: Sierra Leone vs Guinea-Bissau
Thursday, 20 March
19h00 GMT: Libya vs Angola
19h00 GMT: Gabon vs Seychelles
19h00 GMT: Gambia vs Kenya
19h00 GMT: Comoros vs Mali
Friday, 21 March
13h00 GMT: Equatorial Guinea vs Sao Tomé and Principe
13h00 GMT: Botswana vs Algeria
16h00 GMT: Rwanda vs Nigeria
16h00 GMT: Burkina Faso vs Djibouti
16h00 GMT: DR Congo vs South Sudan
16h00 GMT: South Africa vs Lesotho
16h00 GMT: Togo vs Mauritania
19h00 GMT: Ghana vs Chad
19h00 GMT: Burundi vs Cote d’Ivoire
19h00 GMT: Sudan vs Senegal
21h00 GMT: Guinea vs Somalia
21h00 GMT: Ethiopia vs Egypt
21h00 GMT: Niger vs Morocco
https://www.facebook.com/Libbleacherspo ... 813034396/amenina wrote: Fri May 24, 2024 15:56 Group H
Matchday 1: Equatorial Guinea 0-3 Namibia (awarded, original score: 1-0)
Matchday 2: Liberia 3-0 Equatorial Guinea (awarded, original score: 0-1)
Equatorial Guinea now aims to recover the six annulled points forfeited in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. According to reports they’re pushing the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Current standings with Equatorial Guinea having forfeited both matches
Tunisia - 10 pts, 6-0
Namibia - 8 pts, 6-1
Liberia - 7 pts, 5-2
Malawi - 6 pts, 4-3
Equatorial Guinea - 3 pts, 1-7
Sao Tome and Principe - 0 pts, 1-10
Standings if Equatorial Guinea are successful in their appeal
Tunisia - 10 pts, 6-0
Equatorial Guinea - 9 pts, 3-1
Malawi - 6 pts, 4-3
Namibia - 5 pts, 3-2
Liberia - 4 pts, 2-3
Sao Tome and Principe - 0 pts, 1-10
https://www.cafonline.com/news/2026-wor ... -pressure/
2026 World Cup qualifiers: Egypt, Cote d'Ivoire, and Morocco lead - Nigeria, Ghana under pressure
Published: Tuesday, 18 March 2025
As the CAF World Cup qualifiers return this week, African nations are entering a crucial phase with matchdays five and six set to shape the race for World Cup 2026 in North America.
With only group winners securing direct qualification and the four best runners-up fighting for a playoff spot, every match matters.
Egypt, Sudan, Côte d'Ivoire, Tunisia, and Morocco currently lead their groups, but traditional powerhouses like Nigeria and Ghana are under immense pressure.
Here’s a detailed analysis of each group, followed by the latest fixtures and standings.
Group A: Egypt Set to Extend Lead, Burkina Faso Aim to Bounce Back
Egypt remain firm favorites to top Group A, boasting an unbeaten record and a squad led by Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet, the joint-top scorers in qualifying.
With Omar Marmoush now in the mix, Egypt will look to strengthen their position with an away match against Ethiopia before hosting Sierra Leone.
Guinea-Bissau, who held Egypt to a 1-1 draw, continue to fight for second place. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso must take full points against Djibouti to stay in contention after a slow start.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Burkina Faso vs Djibouti | Sierra Leone vs Guinea-Bissau | Ethiopia vs Egypt
Matchday 6: Guinea-Bissau vs Burkina Faso | Egypt vs Sierra Leone | Ethiopia vs Djibouti
Standings:
Egypt – 10 pts
Guinea-Bissau – 6 pts
Burkina Faso – 5 pts
Sierra Leone – 5 pts
Ethiopia – 3 pts
Djibouti – 1 pt
Group B: Sudan and Senegal Locked in a Top-of-the-Table Battle
This group is set for a crucial showdown between Sudan and Senegal, both of whom have been in fine form. Senegal, led by captain Sadio Mane, are unbeaten but trail Sudan by two points.
Their head-to-head clash could decide the group’s outcome.
DR Congo, despite early struggles, still have a chance to stay in contention with must-win matches against South Sudan and Mauritania. Meanwhile, Togo are still chasing their first win in the group.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: DR Congo vs South Sudan | Togo vs Mauritania | Sudan vs Senegal
Matchday 6: Mauritania vs DR Congo | Senegal vs Togo | Sudan vs Senegal
Standings:
Sudan – 10 pts
Senegal – 8 pts
DR Congo – 7 pts
Togo – 3 pts
South Sudan – 2 pts
Mauritania – 1 pt
Group C: Nigeria in Crisis as Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin Lead the Charge
This is one of the tightest groups, with three teams – Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin – all tied on seven points. Nigeria, however, are in serious danger of missing out on qualification, sitting fifth with just three points.
The Super Eagles must win at Rwanda to revive their hopes before a home clash against Zimbabwe.
Meanwhile, South Africa, boosted by their TotalEnergies CAF AFCON qualification, will be aiming for two wins to take control of the group.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: South Africa vs Lesotho | Zimbabwe vs Benin | Rwanda vs Nigeria
Matchday 6: Benin vs South Africa | Nigeria vs Zimbabwe | Rwanda vs Lesotho
Standings:
Rwanda – 7 pts
South Africa – 7 pts
Benin – 7 pts
Lesotho – 5 pts
Nigeria – 3 pts
Zimbabwe – 2 pts
Group D: Cameroon Look to Pull Away from Chasing Pack
Cameroon, with their eight World Cup appearances, lead the group but have Libya and Cape Verde just one point behind. A win against Eswatini, who have lost all their games, could create some breathing room.
Angola, who went unbeaten in the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON qualifiers, could also shake up the standings if they take points from Libya and Cape Verde.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Cape Verde vs Mauritius | Libya vs Angola | Eswatini vs Cameroon
Matchday 6: Angola vs Cape Verde | Cameroon vs Libya | Eswatini vs Mauritius
Standings:
Cameroon – 8 pts
Libya – 7 pts
Cape Verde – 7 pts
Angola – 6 pts
Mauritius – 4 pts
Eswatini – 0 pts
Group E: Morocco Dominate as Eritrea’s Exit Leaves Just Five Teams
With three wins from three, Morocco are heavy favorites to qualify directly.
They face a tough test against Niger, who are still in contention, before hosting Tanzania in a must-win match for both teams.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Niger vs Morocco | Tanzania vs Congo | Zambia vs Eritrea*
Matchday 6: Congo vs Zambia | Niger vs Eritrea* | Morocco vs Tanzania
Standings:
Morocco – 9 pts
Niger – 6 pts
Tanzania – 6 pts
Zambia – 3 pts
Congo – 0 pts
Group F: Côte d’Ivoire Face Strong Competition from Gabon and Burundi
Côte d’Ivoire, fresh from winning the 2023 TotalEnergies CAF AFCON, have maintained their dominance in World Cup qualification, sitting top of the group with 10 points.
Their squad, featuring Jean-Philippe Krasso and Oumar Diakite, has looked solid, but the race for qualification is far from over.
Gabon, just one point behind, will look to maintain pressure, especially with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leading their attack.
Burundi, sitting in third with seven points, are also in contention. Kenya and Gambia must win their upcoming matches to avoid falling further behind.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Gabon vs Seychelles | Gambia vs Kenya | Burundi vs Côte d’Ivoire
Matchday 6: Kenya vs Gabon | Côte d’Ivoire vs Gambia | Burundi vs Seychelles
Standings:
Côte d’Ivoire – 10 pts
Gabon – 9 pts
Burundi – 7 pts
Kenya – 5 pts
Gambia – 3 pts
Seychelles – 0 pts
Group G: Algeria and Mozambique in Tight Battle for Top Spot
Algeria, the only team in this group with World Cup experience, are locked in a tense battle with Mozambique, as both sides sit on nine points. The Fennecs will rely on in-form Amine Gouiri, who has been instrumental in their qualification campaign.
With Botswana, Guinea, and Uganda all sitting on six points, the group remains wide open. The upcoming matches could be decisive in determining who takes control before the final phase of qualifiers. Somalia, yet to register a point, are effectively out of contention.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Guinea vs Somalia | Mozambique vs Uganda | Botswana vs Algeria
Matchday 6: Uganda vs Guinea | Algeria vs Mozambique | Botswana vs Somalia
Standings:
Algeria – 9 pts
Mozambique – 9 pts
Botswana – 6 pts
Guinea – 6 pts
Uganda – 6 pts
Somalia – 0 pts
Group H: Tunisia Look to Extend Lead, Namibia and Liberia in Pursuit
Tunisia have been the standout team in this group, leading with 10 points and securing an early AFCON 2025 qualification spot. They are looking to edge closer to a seventh World Cup appearance, with upcoming matches against Liberia and Malawi.
Namibia and Liberia, sitting in second and third, remain in contention, while Equatorial Guinea, despite their AFCON qualification, have been inconsistent in this campaign. São Tomé and Príncipe have struggled to make an impact, losing all their matches so far.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Equatorial Guinea vs São Tomé and Príncipe | Malawi vs Namibia | Liberia vs Tunisia
Matchday 6: Namibia vs Equatorial Guinea | Tunisia vs Malawi | Liberia vs São Tomé and Príncipe
Standings:
Tunisia – 10 pts
Namibia – 8 pts
Liberia – 7 pts
Malawi – 6 pts
Equatorial Guinea – 3 pts
São Tomé and Príncipe – 0 pts
Group I: Ghana Face a Must-Win Situation as Comoros Hold Surprise Lead
One of the biggest surprises in the CAF qualifiers has been Comoros, who sit top of Group I alongside Ghana, both on 9 points. The island nation has been one of Africa’s fastest-rising teams, with impressive performances in both AFCON and World Cup qualifiers.
Ghana, however, are under immense pressure, as they were expected to dominate this group. With Mali and Madagascar still in the race, the Black Stars must win their matches against Chad and Madagascar to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Mali, with just 5 points, are struggling to keep up, while Chad remain without a point and are effectively out of the running.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Ghana vs Chad | Central African Republic vs Madagascar | Comoros vs Mali
Matchday 6: Madagascar vs Ghana | Central African Republic vs Mali | Comoros vs Chad
Standings:
Comoros – 9 pts
Ghana – 9 pts
Madagascar – 7 pts
Mali – 5 pts
Central African Republic – 4 pts
Chad – 0 pts
With only the group winners securing a direct ticket to World Cup 2026, the stakes have never been higher.
Egypt, Sudan, Côte d'Ivoire, Tunisia, and Morocco look on course for qualification, but giants like Nigeria and Ghana must fight to stay in contention.
The next two matchdays will be critical in shaping Africa’s representation at the World Cup, with several must-win matches on the horizon.
Expect high-intensity battles across all groups as teams push for a place on the world stage.
2026 World Cup qualifiers: Egypt, Cote d'Ivoire, and Morocco lead - Nigeria, Ghana under pressure
Published: Tuesday, 18 March 2025
As the CAF World Cup qualifiers return this week, African nations are entering a crucial phase with matchdays five and six set to shape the race for World Cup 2026 in North America.
With only group winners securing direct qualification and the four best runners-up fighting for a playoff spot, every match matters.
Egypt, Sudan, Côte d'Ivoire, Tunisia, and Morocco currently lead their groups, but traditional powerhouses like Nigeria and Ghana are under immense pressure.
Here’s a detailed analysis of each group, followed by the latest fixtures and standings.
Group A: Egypt Set to Extend Lead, Burkina Faso Aim to Bounce Back
Egypt remain firm favorites to top Group A, boasting an unbeaten record and a squad led by Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet, the joint-top scorers in qualifying.
With Omar Marmoush now in the mix, Egypt will look to strengthen their position with an away match against Ethiopia before hosting Sierra Leone.
Guinea-Bissau, who held Egypt to a 1-1 draw, continue to fight for second place. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso must take full points against Djibouti to stay in contention after a slow start.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Burkina Faso vs Djibouti | Sierra Leone vs Guinea-Bissau | Ethiopia vs Egypt
Matchday 6: Guinea-Bissau vs Burkina Faso | Egypt vs Sierra Leone | Ethiopia vs Djibouti
Standings:
Egypt – 10 pts
Guinea-Bissau – 6 pts
Burkina Faso – 5 pts
Sierra Leone – 5 pts
Ethiopia – 3 pts
Djibouti – 1 pt
Group B: Sudan and Senegal Locked in a Top-of-the-Table Battle
This group is set for a crucial showdown between Sudan and Senegal, both of whom have been in fine form. Senegal, led by captain Sadio Mane, are unbeaten but trail Sudan by two points.
Their head-to-head clash could decide the group’s outcome.
DR Congo, despite early struggles, still have a chance to stay in contention with must-win matches against South Sudan and Mauritania. Meanwhile, Togo are still chasing their first win in the group.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: DR Congo vs South Sudan | Togo vs Mauritania | Sudan vs Senegal
Matchday 6: Mauritania vs DR Congo | Senegal vs Togo | Sudan vs Senegal
Standings:
Sudan – 10 pts
Senegal – 8 pts
DR Congo – 7 pts
Togo – 3 pts
South Sudan – 2 pts
Mauritania – 1 pt
Group C: Nigeria in Crisis as Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin Lead the Charge
This is one of the tightest groups, with three teams – Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin – all tied on seven points. Nigeria, however, are in serious danger of missing out on qualification, sitting fifth with just three points.
The Super Eagles must win at Rwanda to revive their hopes before a home clash against Zimbabwe.
Meanwhile, South Africa, boosted by their TotalEnergies CAF AFCON qualification, will be aiming for two wins to take control of the group.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: South Africa vs Lesotho | Zimbabwe vs Benin | Rwanda vs Nigeria
Matchday 6: Benin vs South Africa | Nigeria vs Zimbabwe | Rwanda vs Lesotho
Standings:
Rwanda – 7 pts
South Africa – 7 pts
Benin – 7 pts
Lesotho – 5 pts
Nigeria – 3 pts
Zimbabwe – 2 pts
Group D: Cameroon Look to Pull Away from Chasing Pack
Cameroon, with their eight World Cup appearances, lead the group but have Libya and Cape Verde just one point behind. A win against Eswatini, who have lost all their games, could create some breathing room.
Angola, who went unbeaten in the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON qualifiers, could also shake up the standings if they take points from Libya and Cape Verde.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Cape Verde vs Mauritius | Libya vs Angola | Eswatini vs Cameroon
Matchday 6: Angola vs Cape Verde | Cameroon vs Libya | Eswatini vs Mauritius
Standings:
Cameroon – 8 pts
Libya – 7 pts
Cape Verde – 7 pts
Angola – 6 pts
Mauritius – 4 pts
Eswatini – 0 pts
Group E: Morocco Dominate as Eritrea’s Exit Leaves Just Five Teams
With three wins from three, Morocco are heavy favorites to qualify directly.
They face a tough test against Niger, who are still in contention, before hosting Tanzania in a must-win match for both teams.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Niger vs Morocco | Tanzania vs Congo | Zambia vs Eritrea*
Matchday 6: Congo vs Zambia | Niger vs Eritrea* | Morocco vs Tanzania
Standings:
Morocco – 9 pts
Niger – 6 pts
Tanzania – 6 pts
Zambia – 3 pts
Congo – 0 pts
Group F: Côte d’Ivoire Face Strong Competition from Gabon and Burundi
Côte d’Ivoire, fresh from winning the 2023 TotalEnergies CAF AFCON, have maintained their dominance in World Cup qualification, sitting top of the group with 10 points.
Their squad, featuring Jean-Philippe Krasso and Oumar Diakite, has looked solid, but the race for qualification is far from over.
Gabon, just one point behind, will look to maintain pressure, especially with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leading their attack.
Burundi, sitting in third with seven points, are also in contention. Kenya and Gambia must win their upcoming matches to avoid falling further behind.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Gabon vs Seychelles | Gambia vs Kenya | Burundi vs Côte d’Ivoire
Matchday 6: Kenya vs Gabon | Côte d’Ivoire vs Gambia | Burundi vs Seychelles
Standings:
Côte d’Ivoire – 10 pts
Gabon – 9 pts
Burundi – 7 pts
Kenya – 5 pts
Gambia – 3 pts
Seychelles – 0 pts
Group G: Algeria and Mozambique in Tight Battle for Top Spot
Algeria, the only team in this group with World Cup experience, are locked in a tense battle with Mozambique, as both sides sit on nine points. The Fennecs will rely on in-form Amine Gouiri, who has been instrumental in their qualification campaign.
With Botswana, Guinea, and Uganda all sitting on six points, the group remains wide open. The upcoming matches could be decisive in determining who takes control before the final phase of qualifiers. Somalia, yet to register a point, are effectively out of contention.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Guinea vs Somalia | Mozambique vs Uganda | Botswana vs Algeria
Matchday 6: Uganda vs Guinea | Algeria vs Mozambique | Botswana vs Somalia
Standings:
Algeria – 9 pts
Mozambique – 9 pts
Botswana – 6 pts
Guinea – 6 pts
Uganda – 6 pts
Somalia – 0 pts
Group H: Tunisia Look to Extend Lead, Namibia and Liberia in Pursuit
Tunisia have been the standout team in this group, leading with 10 points and securing an early AFCON 2025 qualification spot. They are looking to edge closer to a seventh World Cup appearance, with upcoming matches against Liberia and Malawi.
Namibia and Liberia, sitting in second and third, remain in contention, while Equatorial Guinea, despite their AFCON qualification, have been inconsistent in this campaign. São Tomé and Príncipe have struggled to make an impact, losing all their matches so far.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Equatorial Guinea vs São Tomé and Príncipe | Malawi vs Namibia | Liberia vs Tunisia
Matchday 6: Namibia vs Equatorial Guinea | Tunisia vs Malawi | Liberia vs São Tomé and Príncipe
Standings:
Tunisia – 10 pts
Namibia – 8 pts
Liberia – 7 pts
Malawi – 6 pts
Equatorial Guinea – 3 pts
São Tomé and Príncipe – 0 pts
Group I: Ghana Face a Must-Win Situation as Comoros Hold Surprise Lead
One of the biggest surprises in the CAF qualifiers has been Comoros, who sit top of Group I alongside Ghana, both on 9 points. The island nation has been one of Africa’s fastest-rising teams, with impressive performances in both AFCON and World Cup qualifiers.
Ghana, however, are under immense pressure, as they were expected to dominate this group. With Mali and Madagascar still in the race, the Black Stars must win their matches against Chad and Madagascar to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Mali, with just 5 points, are struggling to keep up, while Chad remain without a point and are effectively out of the running.
Upcoming Fixtures:
Matchday 5: Ghana vs Chad | Central African Republic vs Madagascar | Comoros vs Mali
Matchday 6: Madagascar vs Ghana | Central African Republic vs Mali | Comoros vs Chad
Standings:
Comoros – 9 pts
Ghana – 9 pts
Madagascar – 7 pts
Mali – 5 pts
Central African Republic – 4 pts
Chad – 0 pts
With only the group winners securing a direct ticket to World Cup 2026, the stakes have never been higher.
Egypt, Sudan, Côte d'Ivoire, Tunisia, and Morocco look on course for qualification, but giants like Nigeria and Ghana must fight to stay in contention.
The next two matchdays will be critical in shaping Africa’s representation at the World Cup, with several must-win matches on the horizon.
Expect high-intensity battles across all groups as teams push for a place on the world stage.