Morocco Poised to Become First African 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
September 1, 2025
Morocco, led by Ballon d’Or nominee Achraf Hakimi, is on the verge of becoming the first African team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A win over Niger in Rabat during matchday 7 would give the Atlas Lions an unassailable lead in Group E, unless second-placed Tanzania defeats Congo Brazzaville earlier the same day. Morocco then travel to Zambia on September 8, needing just one point to secure qualification in the expanded 48-team tournament.
Morocco currently tops the group with 15 points from five matches, with Tanzania on nine, Zambia and Niger on six, and Congo yet to score after walkovers.
Hakimi, the Paris Saint-Germain defender, combines defensive skill with attacking prowess. He scored in PSG’s 5-0 Champions League final win over Inter Milan and later helped the team finish runners-up at the Club World Cup. He also captained Morocco to Olympic bronze at the 2024 Paris Games.
“My dream now is to win a trophy with Morocco — either the World Cup or the Africa Cup of Nations,” Hakimi said. Morocco will host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations starting December 21, aiming for their first continental title since 1976.
Egypt, Nigeria, and Ghana in Strong Positions
Egypt, led by Mohamed Salah, is well placed in Group A, needing wins over Ethiopia and Burkina Faso to secure qualification.
Nigeria has struggled in Group C, winning only once in six matches. Star striker Victor Osimhen admitted: “Qualification has to be earned. Talent alone isn’t enough.” Nigeria face Rwanda at home, followed by a key clash with South Africa.
Ghana is enjoying a strong campaign in Group I, with victories over Chad and a home clash against Mali likely to secure back-to-back World Cup appearances. Coach Otto Addo boasts attacking talent including Antoine Semenyo and Inaki Williams.
The final rounds of African qualifying will conclude in October 8-14, with all nine group winners earning spots at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
