Pending the qualification playoffs, the CAF World Cup qualifying campaign has concluded with nine nations already guaranteed their tickets to North America. Tunisia became the first African side to seal qualification, setting the tone for a campaign filled with dominance, drama, and historic firsts.
Egypt cruised through Group A unbeaten, while reigning African champions Senegal edged DR Congo in a tightly contested Group B. South Africa topped the chaotic Group C after benefiting from a points deduction to rivals Benin, while Cape Verde made history as the second-smallest nation ever to qualify.
Morocco, the 2022 semi-finalists, were flawless throughout, winning all eight of their matches in Group E. Ivory Coast held off Gabon in Group F, and Algeria secured an early ticket from Group G. Tunisia, meanwhile, broke a CAF qualifying record with 28 points, while Ghana’s late surge under Jordan Ayew’s leadership ensured their place.
Nigeria, Cameroon, DR Congo, and Gabon now head to the playoff round, a mini-tournament featuring two semi-finals and a final, to decide the last African representative. The draw pairs Nigeria with Gabon, while Cameroon will take on DR Congo for a coveted spot in the intercontinental playoff.