A grid photo of Nigeria and Cameroon players
African countries are battling for slots in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with some big football nations on the continent on the verge of missing out.
Cameroon and Nigeria, giants in football on the continent, could be absent from the tournament following their unimpressive performances in the qualification process.
In Group C, Nigeria’s fate hangs in the balance after they drew 1-1 against South Africa, which has placed them in a precarious situation with two games remaining.
After eight games, South Africa lead Group C with 17 points, Benin are second with 14 points, and Nigeria and Rwanda are tied for third position with 11 points each.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will need to win their two remaining games and score more goals, hoping that South Africa slips up to secure automatic qualification.
Nigeria players yet to receive match bonuses for 30 games
Meanwhile, Cameroon also finds itself in a similar situation, lying second in Group D with 15 points, while Cape Verde lead with 19 points and Libya are third with 14 points after eight games.
The Indomitable Lions will hope for the group leaders to lose their remaining matches while they win theirs to surpass them.
If the two countries fail to top their groups, they will hope to be among the best second-placed teams to qualify for a playoff.
The two final matches of the qualifiers will take place in October 2025 during the international break, deciding group winners and those who will qualify for the playoff.
SB/JE
Meanwhile, watch the post-match conferences of Otto Addo, Tom Saintfiet and highlights of Ghana vs Mali game
