World Cup 2026 Qualifiers Africa round-up

In the initial phase of the African World Cup 2026 qualifiers, a riveting panorama unfolded among the 53 nations vying for the nine prized automatic slots in football’s grandest event, set to be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Spanning from November 15 to 21, the African qualifying campaign commenced, laying the groundwork for a fiercely contested journey.

Prior to the 2023 CAF Africa Cup of Nations in early months and the upcoming matchdays in June 2024, FIFA reflects on the opening encounters, spotlighting four compelling narratives that emerged during this dynamic week.

Côte d'Ivoire's Record-Breaking Triumph

In a resounding display, Côte d'Ivoire made history in Group F by vanquishing Seychelles with a staggering 9-0 victory, establishing a new pinnacle for the largest winning margin in an African World Cup qualifier. The match saw Sebastien Haller initiating the deluge of goals, followed by a symphony of strikes from Ibrahim Sangare, Simon Adringa, Karim Konate (2), Seko Fofana, Hamed Junior Traore (2), and Jean-Philippe Krasso.

Jean-Louis Gasset, the coach of Les Éléphants, remarked in a post-match interview, "I urged my players to honor our opponents while showcasing their clinical prowess. We created numerous opportunities, and a diverse array of players capitalized on them."

The previous record holders, Congo DR, secured a 9-1 win against Djibouti during the qualifiers for Korea/Japan 2002 at the Stade des Martyrs—a one-sided clash that remains the highest-scoring CAF qualifying match to date.

Slimani and Belmadi's Ascendance

On the inaugural matchday, Algeria's Islam Slimani etched his name in history by equalling the record for the most goals scored (18) in African qualifiers, joining the esteemed ranks of national icons such as Côte d'Ivoire's Didier Drogba, Cameroon's Samuel Eto'o, and Burkina Faso's Moumouni Dagano.

"Is that so?" queried the veteran forward upon learning the news from a journalist. "That's fantastic!"

Simultaneously, his coach Djamel Belmadi achieved a personal milestone during Les Fennecs' second game—a 2-0 victory over Mozambique. Belmadi has now helmed Algeria for 59 matches, a feat surpassed only by Rachid Mekhloufi (also 59) and the long-serving Rabah Saadane (72).

Comoros' Historic Triumphs

Comoros scripted a historic chapter by securing their first-ever three points in a World Cup qualifier with a momentous 4-2 victory over the Central African Republic in their opening group fixture. Kassim M'dahoma, Rafiki Said, Bendjaloud Youssouf, and Myziane Maolida, all plying their trade in lower leagues across France and Germany, orchestrated the crucial goals for Les Coelacantes. Prior to this triumph, the island nation, participating in qualifiers since 2007, had endured six defeats and four draws.

Stefano Cusin, their Italian coach, expressed gratitude to the fervent fans, citing their inspiration for the players. "I feel immense pride for the Comorian people. If we've brought them a semblance of joy today, that's significant. Moving forward, we must remain grounded, sustain our efforts, and uphold competitiveness."

Building on this success, Comoros stunned Ghana with a 1-0 victory, once again led by Maolida's goal-scoring prowess.

Nigeria's Hurdles, Tunisia's Advance

Facing the absence of their talismanic striker Victor Osimhen due to injury, Nigeria grappled with two drawn encounters in their initial matches. Jose Peseiro's squad secured two disappointing 1-1 draws against Lesotho at home and Zimbabwe away, rallying from behind on both occasions. Nevertheless, the Super Eagles take solace in an extraordinary streak of 46 matches without defeat in World Cup qualifiers.

Meanwhile, Tunisia surged ahead of Nigeria in qualifying victories, tallying 64 wins (against Nigeria's 62) with commanding triumphs over São Tomé and Príncipe (4-0) and Malawi (1-0).

The unfolding narratives in the early stages of the African World Cup qualifiers for 2026 paint a captivating picture of ambition, resilience, and historic milestones in the pursuit of footballing glory.