Africa’s World Cup Qualifiers Heat Up: Morocco Books Spot, South Africa Faces Nigeria
- Southerton Business Times
- Sep 8
- 2 min read
CAF Zone — September 8, 2025 — The race to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is intensifying across Africa as Morocco became the first team from the continent to secure qualification. At the same time, South Africa gears up for a defining clash against Nigeria in what could be the most dramatic showdown of the CAF qualifiers.
Morocco Punches Ticket in Style
The Atlas Lions stormed into the World Cup with a dominant 5-0 victory over Niger, cementing their place at the top of Group E. The win not only preserved their perfect record but also made Morocco the first African side to qualify for the expanded 48-team tournament in North America.
Analysts have praised Morocco’s ability to blend seasoned veterans with rising stars, noting the seamless continuity since their historic 2022 World Cup semifinal run in Qatar. “The Atlas Lions guarantee qualification in style,” AfricanFootball.com reported, pointing to the authority of coach Walid Regragui’s squad.
Morocco’s qualification adds momentum to North Africa’s dominance in the qualifiers, with Egypt and Algeria also in strong positions heading into the final rounds.
South Africa vs Nigeria: A Decisive Showdown
Attention now turns to Group C, where Bafana Bafana lead with 16 points, two ahead of Rwanda, while Nigeria trails in third with 10. The Super Eagles face a must-win clash against South Africa in Lagos, a fixture that could decide both teams’ fate. Nigeria’s preparations have been disrupted by the absence of star striker Victor Osimhen, sidelined by injury. Analysts believe his absence could prove decisive. “Osimhen’s absence could tilt the balance,” said Bhavya, an analyst with Khel Now.
South Africa’s coach Hugo Broos has urged his side to seize the moment, highlighting the chance to secure their first World Cup appearance since 2010, when they hosted the tournament. Nigerian fans, however, remain confident that Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze can step up to fill the void.
Other Key Fixtures Across Africa
Egypt continued their strong run with a 2-0 win over Ethiopia in Cairo, with Mohamed Salah once again instrumental.
Senegal narrowly edged Sudan to keep their qualification hopes alive in Group F.
Zambia face a tough test against Morocco in Lusaka, hoping to keep their campaign on track.
Uganda will take on Somalia in a must-win game to preserve their slim qualification chances.
Nine Tickets at Stake
With Africa granted nine direct qualification spots under FIFA’s new format, the race remains wide open. Heavyweights like Cameroon, Ghana, and Ivory Coast are still in contention, ensuring that the final two matchdays in October will deliver drama and suspense.
Fans across the continent are already dreaming of another historic breakthrough on the global stage. With Morocco setting the pace, the spotlight now falls on which African giants will rise to join them in North America 2026.
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