Four African Football Giants In Danger Of Missing 2026 World Cup

Four African Football Giants In Danger Of Missing 2026 World Cup

By BSN Sports 

As the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup approach the final stretch, the tension across the continent is mounting. While a few teams have already booked their spots or sit comfortably at the top of their groups, several of Africa’s traditional football powerhouses are dangerously close to missing out on a place at the tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

With only group winners guaranteed automatic qualification, the margin for error is razor-thin and four of Africa’s biggest football nations find themselves at risk of elimination.

1. Algeria: Must-Win Situation Looms

Algeria began their qualifying campaign strongly but now find themselves in a precarious position. A slip-up against Somalia or a defeat in their final match against Uganda could cost the Desert Foxes top spot in their group. Uganda, who have emerged as surprise contenders, are just a few points adrift and could leapfrog Algeria if results swing their way. Algeria will need to secure maximum points in their remaining fixtures to avoid a stunning exit.

2. Ivory Coast: Pressure from Gabon

Ivory Coast’s qualification hopes are far from secure. Although they remain in contention, Gabon are breathing down their necks in the group standings. Any dropped points in their final two matches could see the Elephants lose control of the top spot — forcing them into a risky battle for a place via the best runners-up route. For a team of their stature, anything less than direct qualification would be a major letdown.

3. Cameroon: Cape Verde in Command

The Indomitable Lions are in perhaps the most difficult position of all. Currently trailing group leaders Cape Verde by four points, Cameroon must win their remaining matches and hope for a slip from their rivals. Should Cape Verde register another win in the next round, Cameroon’s hopes could be dashed completely. The pressure is on coach Rigobert Song and his men to deliver flawless performances from here on.

4. Nigeria: Super Eagles on the Brink

Few would have predicted that Nigeria, six-time World Cup participants, would be teetering on the edge of missing out. With just 11 points from eight matches, the Super Eagles are currently behind Benin Republic and South Africa, who were docked three points earlier in the campaign for fielding an ineligible player.

To have any chance of qualification, Nigeria must defeat both Lesotho and Benin in their final matches and still rely on South Africa dropping points. The team’s fate is now as dependent on their rivals as it is on their own performance, making this one of the most anxious qualifying runs in the country’s history.