Abidjan: Ivory Coast and Senegal claimed Africa’s final two automatic qualifying spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as both sides registered victories on Tuesday. Senegal achieved a decisive 4-0 victory at home against Mauritania, securing first place in Group B.
According to BBC, Senegal’s triumph was marked by a Sadio Mane free-kick that gave the hosts the lead just before half-time. Mane, the former Liverpool forward, continued his impressive performance by scoring again, followed by a fine solo effort from Iliman Ndiaye and a late goal by Habib Diallo to round off the scoring. This victory placed Senegal a point ahead of Gabon, who secured a 2-0 win over Burundi in Franceville with late goals from Bryan Meyo and Mario Lemina.
Ivory Coast, returning to the World Cup finals for the first time since 2014, completed their group campaign without conceding a single goal, a feat matched only by Tunisia on the continent. Ivory Coast and Senegal will join Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Ghana, Cape Verde, and South Africa in securing their places at the World Cup finals next year.
One additional African team could join this group if they win the intercontinental play-offs in March next year. Cameroon, DR Congo, Gabon, and Nigeria have finished as the four best second-placed teams across the nine groups. One of these teams will have the opportunity to become Africa’s 10th representative at the expanded 48-team World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The Confederation of African Football has yet to announce a date for the play-off draw.