African Drama: Pharaohs Qualify, Stallions and Niger Charge Forward

Africa’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup took another dramatic turn as Egypt, Burkina Faso, and Niger delivered decisive victories, while Guinea-Bissau, Sierra Leone, and Angola saw their dreams end.

Salah leads Pharaohs to the promised land

 Egypt officially booked their ticket to the World Cup with a commanding 3–0 win over Djibouti in Casablanca. Mohamed Salah stole the spotlight once again, scoring twice to become Africa’s all-time top scorer in World Cup qualifying. The Liverpool star added his trademark flair — first firing home after latching onto a through ball, then sealing the win with a beautiful late volley. Ibrahim Adel opened the scoring early, heading home a perfect cross from Zizo.

Burkina Faso fight to stay alive

 Burkina Faso confirmed second place in Group A after a hard-fought 1–0 win over Sierra Leone. Mohamed Zougrana’s first-half header from Bertrand Traoré’s corner proved enough for the Stallions, who now hope to qualify as one of the four best runners-up. Goalkeeper Kilian Nikiema was the hero, pulling off two massive saves to deny Sierra Leone’s Kei Kamara and Augustus Kargbo late on.

Ethiopia play spoilers

Guinea-Bissau’s campaign ended in heartbreak as they fell 1–0 to Ethiopia. Ramkel Jemes Gang’s powerful header in the 27th minute proved decisive. Guinea-Bissau had a golden chance to equalize in stoppage time, but Beto missed from close range, ending their qualification hopes.

Niger keep the dream alive

Niger produced one of the day’s best performances, defeating Congo 3–1. Daniel Sosah, Youssef Oumarou, and Victorien Adebayor all scored to move Niger up to second place in Group E. Congo’s Deo Bassinga netted a late consolation, but it wasn’t enough.

Zambia spoil Tanzania’s party

Tanzania’s World Cup chase ended with a disappointing 1–0 home defeat to Zambia. After hitting the crossbar minutes earlier, Fashion Sakala finally broke through with a neat finish from close range. Zambia ended their campaign on a high, while Tanzania dropped down the standings.