As the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers reach their midway point, underperforming Nigeria and history-chasing Sudan headline a critical double matchday, with continental heavyweights Egypt, Senegal, and Ghana also in action.
Super Eagles Aim to Resurrect Campaign
Nigeria, seeded to top Group C, sit shockingly fifth in their six-team section after a winless run that included draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, followed by a defeat to Benin. The Super Eagles, led by former African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen (Napoli) and current African best, Ademola Lookman (Atalanta), are now under the guidance of Eric Chelle who replaced interim managers Finidi George and Augustine Eguavoen.
Chelle, previously dismissed by Mali after a poor qualifying start, faces immediate pressure ahead of clashes against Rwanda (March 21) and Zimbabwe (March 26). “Football is about scoring goals, and I favor an attacking style,” said Chelle.
Sudan’s Historic Pursuit Amid Civil War
In Group B, Sudan—ranked 127th globally—defy expectations by leading ahead of Senegal. Despite being displaced by a devastating civil war that has forced home matches to Benghazi, Libya, the Falcons of Jediane remain unbeaten. Ghanaian coach Kwesi Appiah has rallied his squad: “Look at Senegal’s stars and believe you’re as good as they are. You’re playing for families and a nation at war.”
Senegal, led by Sadio Mané, seek redemption after a shock AFCON exit but will miss Chelsea’s injured Nicolas Jackson. A win in Benghazi would solidify Sudan’s unlikely bid for a first World Cup appearance.
Key Matches to Watch
- Ethiopia vs Egypt (Group A)
Egypt, atop Group A with a four-point cushion, rely on Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet—Africa’s joint-top scorers in qualifying (5 goals each). Ethiopia, hosting in Morocco due to stadium deficiencies, face an uphill battle against a Pharaohs side bolstered by Eintracht Frankfurt’s Omar Marmoush. - Rwanda vs Nigeria (Group C)
Nigeria’s revamped attack meets a resurgent Rwanda under new coach Adel Amrouche. The Wasps stunned the Super Eagles in 2023, and another upset in Kigali could derail Nigeria’s qualification hopes entirely. - Gambia vs Kenya (Group F)
Kenya debut new coach Benni McCarthy, the ex-Manchester United striker, who vows to “surprise many” in their underdog quest. With Ivory Coast leading Group F, the Harambee Stars must capitalize against Gambia and Gabon to stay in contention. - Ghana vs Chad (Group I)
Ghana, reeling from a loss to Comoros and AFCON qualifying failure, face crisis-stricken Chad. The visitors, winless and amid a player boycott, are led by interim coach Tahir Zakaria Gardia. Premier League stars Thomas Partey and Jordan Ayew are expected to steer the Black Stars to victory.
Qualification Format
Nine group winners secure direct World Cup berths, while the four best runners-up advance to a playoff round. With the qualifiers spanning until October 2025, every matchday proves crucial for Africa’s 54 nations chasing a record nine slots at the expanded 48-team World Cup.
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