Overview

• Fixtures from October 8–14 will decide seven CAF group winners to join already-qualified Morocco and Tunisia at the 2026 World Cup.
• Egypt can secure Group A by beating Djibouti, Ghana can clinch Group I if they win and Madagascar drop points, Algeria need at least a draw against Somalia, and Cape Verde require one win from two to reach a first finals.
• Senegal lead Group B and qualify with two wins, while Ivory Coast hold a one-point edge in Group F and can finish the job against Seychelles and Kenya if they avoid slips against pursuing Gabon.
• South Africa were docked three points after fielding the ineligible Teboho Mokoena in March, falling behind Benin on goal difference in Group C as coach Hugo Broos accepted responsibility.
• The four best runners-up advance to November play-offs before an intercontinental route in March 2026, yet FIFA and CAF have not confirmed how runner-up rankings will be adjusted after Eritrea’s pre-campaign withdrawal.