Africa’s qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup wrap up this week with several groups going down to the wire. Five nations in particular will define the drama on the final day: Nigeria, Benin, South Africa, Cape Verde, and Ivory Coast. (Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, and Ghana are already through.)

Nigeria: win in Cotonou and watch the scoreboard

Nigeria’s route reopened late in the campaign. A win away to Benin is non-negotiable, and the Super Eagles also need the other Group C result to tilt their way. Fine margins separate the top sides, so one early goal anywhere could swing the live table.

Benin: destiny largely in their hands

Benin seized control of Group C heading into the finale. A home victory over Nigeria would all but guarantee qualification, though extreme scenarios could still bring goal difference into play. They’ve earned the right to decide it on their own turf.

South Africa: steady the ship and finish

A late disciplinary twist reshaped Group C and tightened the race. South Africa now need a strong final-day result and a friendly bounce elsewhere to stay top. Mental resilience will matter as much as tactics after a noisy build-up.

Cape Verde: one home win from history

The Blue Sharks are a victory away from their first-ever World Cup. Beat Eswatini at home, and Group D is theirs. Anything less invites calculators, but the task is clear—and on their own ground.

Ivory Coast: finish the job

The AFCON champions have been close to flawless. A win over Kenya seals qualification; even a draw might be enough depending on other results. A calm, professional performance should do it.