As the dust settles on the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers across Africa, the continent has confirmed nine automatic representatives for next year’s global showpiece in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. However, one final ticket remains up for grabs—and four determined nations are ready to battle for it.
Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Ghana, Cape Verde, South Africa, Ivory Coast, and Senegal have all booked their places by topping their respective qualifying groups. But CAF’s qualification format allows for a tenth African team to join the elite through a rigorous play-off process.
The Race for the Final Spot
CAF has now confirmed the four best second-placed teams eligible for the continental play-off, following a points recalibration that excluded results against bottom-placed sides in each group. Gabon leads the quartet with 19 points, having emerged as Group F runners-up. DR Congo follows with 16 points, while Cameroon and Nigeria both finished on 15 points—separated only by goal difference.
Burkina Faso and Niger, despite matching Cameroon and Nigeria on points, were edged out due to inferior goal margins. Uganda’s hopes were dashed after a 2-1 defeat to Algeria left the Cranes in eighth place with 12 points.
Play-Off Schedule and Stakes
The four teams—Gabon, DR Congo, Cameroon, and Nigeria—will face off in the continental play-off semi-finals on November 13, with the final scheduled for November 16 in Morocco. The winner will then proceed to the inter-confederation play-offs, where they’ll face teams from other continents for a chance to secure Africa’s tenth and final World Cup slot.
This high-stakes route offers redemption and a last gasp of hope for nations that narrowly missed automatic qualification. With pride, legacy, and a ticket to the world’s biggest football stage on the line, November’s play-offs promise drama, intensity, and unforgettable moments.