Ivory Coast, Senegal and South Africa secure spots at World Cup

14th October marked a monumental night in the African World Cup qualifiers as three giant African teams, the Ivory Coast, Senegal and South Africa, have all successfully qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Africa News via Associated Press reports.

In Group B, Senegal secured a 4-0 win over Mauritania that allowed them to keep their lead over DR Congo and top their group.

Their victory was marked by an ecstatic team performance, with Sadio Mané scoring a thunderous free kick during stoppage time at the end of the first half. Early into the second half, Mané quickly scored his second. Following this, Iliman Ndiaye caught himself on the run and went alone to bag a third goal. Finally, Habib Diallo scored their fourth and final goal of the match.

Meanwhile, in Group C, South Africa dethroned Benin from their top spot entering the final round following a 3-0 win over Rwanda. Goals from Thalente Mbatha, Oswin Appolis and Evidence Makgopa helped to secure Bafana Bafana’s ticket to the World Cup.

South Africa’s chances of qualifying previously were low, scraping themselves on a hurdle following an unexpected drop in points. Despite this, the team came back with a vengeance and a desire to win that ultimately rectified their previous mistakes.

Elsewhere, the Ivory Coast also managed to qualify in Group F. The team obtained a 3-0 win on a rainy night at home. Frank Kessie and young prospect, Yan Diomande initially made the score sheet; however, Amad Diallo’s free kick late into the match was the moment that cemented the team’s successful qualification for the World Cup.

These three African countries join nations such as Tunisia and Cape Verde in representing their continent and countries on the international stage in the new 48-team 2026 FIFA World Cup. They will be travelling to North America to play in Mexico, United States and Canada against some of the top footballing talent in the world.

Africa News via Associated Press, Maghrebi.org