(Reuters) – Algeria, Egypt, and Morocco secured crucial home victories on Tuesday, strengthening their bids for 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification. However, South Africa’s campaign is in jeopardy as they risk being docked points for fielding an ineligible player.
South Africa’s Points Controversy
South Africa defeated Benin 2-0 to lead Group C by five points, but their 3-1 win over Lesotho last Friday is under review.
- Teboho Mokoena, who had two yellow cards from earlier qualifiers, played despite being suspended.
- Coach Hugo Broos refused to comment: “It is something that will be sorted over the next week.”
- If South Africa is penalized, their lead over Nigeria could shrink significantly.
Nigeria Held by Zimbabwe
Nigeria missed a chance to close the gap after conceding a last-minute equalizer in a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe.
- Victor Osimhen gave Nigeria the lead in the 74th minute.
- Tawanda Chirewa stunned the hosts with a stoppage-time goal.
Algeria, Egypt & Morocco Stay on Course
Algeria dominated Mozambique 5-1, thanks to a hat-trick from Mohamed Amoura, extending their Group G lead to three points.
Egypt edged Sierra Leone 1-0 in Cairo with Ahmed Zizo scoring before halftime, maintaining a five-point lead in Group A.
Morocco continued their perfect run in Group E, beating Tanzania 2-0 with goals from Nayef Aguerd and a Brahim Diaz penalty.
Other Key Results
- Cape Verde 2-1 Angola: Dailon Livramento’s brace put Cape Verde top of Group D, ahead of Cameroon.
- Cameroon 3-1 Libya: Vincent Aboubakar scored twice, with Bryan Mbeumo adding another.
- DR Congo 2-0 Mauritania: Goals from Charles Pickel and Fiston Mayele put DR Congo atop Group B.
- Senegal 2-0 Togo: Pape Matar Sarr and an own goal secured the win, keeping Senegal in second place.
What’s Next?
World Cup qualifiers resume in September, followed by a final set of games in October.
The nine group winners qualify directly, while four best runners-up compete for an additional spot via intercontinental playoffs.
South Africa’s potential points deduction could shake up Group C, adding more drama to Africa’s road to World Cup 2026.
