World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: Senegal and Ivory Coast Secure Spots as DR Congo and Gabon Head to Playoffs
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers draw to a close, significant matches across Africa have confirmed the fates of several national teams. Senegal and Ivory Coast have solidified their spots in the prestigious tournament, while the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) and Gabon will move on to playoff positions.
Senegal Dominates to Secure World Cup Spot
Senegal concluded its qualifying campaign with a decisive 4-0 victory over Mauritania. The match took place in Diamniadio, featuring a standout performance from star player Sadio Mané, who scored twice. This win assured Senegal of the top position in Group B, finishing ahead of the DR Congo.
DR Congo needed a win against Sudan to have a chance at direct qualification but managed only a 1-0 victory in Kinshasa, with Théo Bongonda scoring the decisive goal. They will now face playoffs to secure a spot in the World Cup.
Ivory Coast’s Qualification and Gabon’s Playoff Journey
In Group F, Ivory Coast triumphed 3-0 against Kenya in Abidjan, thanks to goals from Franck Kessié, Yan Diomande, and Amad Diallo. This victory marks a return to the World Cup for the champions, ending a 12-year absence.
Meanwhile, Gabon, playing without their star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, defeated Burundi 2-0 in Franceville. Goals from Bruno Ngoua and Mario Lemina ensured the Gabonese qualified for the playoffs as one of the best second-place teams.
Additional Highlights from the Qualifiers
Morocco, already secured a place in the World Cup, added to their remarkable run by defeating the Republic of Congo 1-0, with Youssef En-Nesyri providing the goal. This victory was significant as it marked Morocco’s 16th consecutive win, breaking the previous record held by Spain from 2008 to 2009.
Match Results Summary
- DR Congo 1 – 0 Sudan: Théo Bongonda (29′)
- Sénégal 4 – 0 Mauritanie: Sadio Mané (45’+2, 49′), Iliman Ndiaye (65′), Habib Diallo (86′)
- Maroc 1 – 0 Congo: Youssef En-Nesyri (63′)
- Gabon 2 – 0 Burundi: Bryan Ngoua (87′), Mario Lemina (90’+2)
- Côte d’Ivoire 3 – 0 Kenya: Franck Kessié (7′), Yan Diomande (54′), Amad Diallo (85′)
With the conclusion of these matches, Senegal and Ivory Coast will prepare for the World Cup while DR Congo and Gabon gear up for their playoff challenges. The excitement builds as African teams vie for glory on the world stage.
