Nigeria’s Super Eagles and five other African sides face a tense finale today as the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers reach a thrilling climax across the continent.
From Uyo to Dakar and Abidjan, six nations — Nigeria, Benin, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, South Africa, and DR Congo — are locked in decisive contests for just three remaining automatic tickets.
Nigeria vs Benin: Do-or-Die in Uyo
All eyes will be on Uyo, where Nigeria’s Super Eagles host Benin Republic in a make-or-break Group C clash.
Benin lead the group with 17 points, while Nigeria trail narrowly behind. A win for Gernot Rohr’s men would secure Benin’s first-ever World Cup qualification, but the Super Eagles must win and hope other results go their way to snatch an automatic qualification ticket.
Home advantage may favour Nigeria, but the pressure is immense — anything short of victory could end their World Cup hopes, an outcome unimaginable for a football powerhouse.
Senegal Aim to Seal Group B in Dakar
In Group B, reigning African champions Senegal are favourites to qualify outright.
Pape Thiaw’s Teranga Lions top the group with 21 points, two ahead of DR Congo.
A draw at home to Mauritania tonight (20:00 GMT) would confirm their ticket to the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
DR Congo, meanwhile, must beat Sudan and hope for a Senegal slip to stand any chance of snatching the group.
Côte d’Ivoire on the brink
In Group F, Côte d’Ivoire look poised to complete the job.
After demolishing Seychelles 7–0 last week, the Elephants host Kenya in Abidjan knowing a win will officially secure their World Cup return.
With a commanding goal difference and a confident squad under Emerse Faé, Côte d’Ivoire appear destined for North America.
What’s at Stake
Group Winners:
Qualify automatically for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Six spots already secured by Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Ghana, and Cape Verde.
CAF Playoff (November 2025):
The four best runners-up will contest a mini-tournament in Morocco.
The winner advances to the intercontinental playoff for one last global ticket.
Key Factors
Experience vs Hunger: Nigeria, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire rely on battle-tested stars; Benin and DR Congo bring youthful energy and belief.
Home Advantage: Nigeria and Senegal’s crowds could inspire decisive wins — but underdogs have upset the odds before.
Goal Difference: In several groups, every strike could define destiny.
Predictions
Senegal: Expected to clinch Group B.
Côte d’Ivoire: Virtually qualified, barring a shock.
Nigeria vs Benin: Balanced encounter — Nigeria’s home advantage gives them an edge, but Benin’s resilience could produce a stunning twist. The Super Eagles must deliver their very best to survive.
Tuesday, 14 October 2025 — Fixtures at a Glance (GMT)
Time Match Group
16:00 Seychelles vs Gambia F
17:00 Nigeria vs Benin C
19:00 Algeria vs Uganda G
19:00 Guinea vs Botswana G
19:00 Somalia vs Mozambique G
19:00 South Africa vs Rwanda C
20:00 Senegal vs Mauritania B
20:00 Côte d’Ivoire vs Kenya F
20:00 DR Congo vs Sudan B
20:00 Gabon vs Burundi I
20:00 Morocco vs Congo E
