The road to the 2026 World Cup remains challenging for several African football powerhouses. Nations such as Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) are striving for qualification, but many face tough battles ahead. The concluding rounds of the African qualifiers take place from October 8 to October 14, 2025.
Nigeria, DR Congo, and Cameroon Compete for 2026 World Cup Spots
As the qualifiers progress, only group winners gain direct entry to the World Cup. The remaining nations must hope to secure one of the four best second-place finishes across all groups to reach the playoffs. This situation adds pressure and uncertainty for many teams.
Current Standings of Key Teams
Here’s a look at the standings and challenges facing Nigeria, Cameroon, and DR Congo:
- Nigeria (11 points): The Super Eagles are currently in a difficult position. They benefited from the annulment of South Africa’s win over Benin. A favorable finish in their final matches could still see them achieve second place.
- Cameroon (15 points): After a recent loss to Cape Verde, they trail by four points in their group. They must secure victories against Mauritius and Angola to maintain a chance at qualification.
- DR Congo (16 points): Following a loss to Senegal, the Leopards need to win their upcoming matches against Togo and Sudan to ensure their place among the best second-placed teams.
Other Contenders
Aside from the primary contenders, other teams are also making noteworthy advances in the qualifiers:
- Gabon: Currently leading with 19 points, Gabon is the top second-placed team and is aiming for the group lead against Côte d’Ivoire.
- Burkina Faso: With 15 points, they are just ahead of Cameroon on goal difference. Their focus will be on winning their final matches against Sierra Leone and Ethiopia.
Upcoming Fixtures
The final matches in the qualifying rounds are crucial. Teams are striving not just to win but to maximize their points. The following matches are pivotal:
- Nigeria vs. Benin
- Cameroon vs. Mauritius
- DR Congo vs. Togo
As the countdown to the final week of qualifiers begins, Nigeria, Cameroon, DR Congo, and other African nations remain determined to secure their spots for the 2026 World Cup. The competition is fierce, and every match counts towards their dreams of international glory.
