Senegal and Ivory Coast Eye World Cup Qualification
As Africa’s Matchday 9 of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers approaches, Senegal and Ivory Coast stand on the brink of securing their spots for the 2026 tournament. With nine crucial matches scheduled for Friday, October 10, the excitement is palpable across the continent.
Senegal on the Cusp of Qualification
Currently topping Group B, Senegal holds a two-point lead over DR Congo and could clinch their World Cup berth with a win against South Sudan in Juba. The match kicks off in the afternoon, but their hopes depend on DR Congo failing to secure a win against Togo, who will play an hour later.
Coach Pape Thiaw is optimistic, especially with the return of key player Ismaila Sarr. However, injuries to Lamine Camara and Habib Diarra pose challenges for the squad. “Nothing is decided yet,” Thiaw remarked, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus.
Ivory Coast Aiming for Group F Supremacy
Reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions Ivory Coast also have their sights set on qualification. They need to defeat Seychelles in Saint Pierre, Mauritius, while hoping Gabon stumbles against Gambia in Nairobi. With World Cup appearances in 2006, 2010, and 2014, the Elephants are eager to return to the global stage.
Group C’s Intrigue
The early evening promises an intense battle in Group C. After a three-point penalty imposed on South Africa for fielding an ineligible player, Benin now leads the group, with South Africa trailing on goal difference. Just three points behind are Nigeria and Rwanda, making the race for the top position wide open.
Benin faces a challenging match away against Rwanda in Kigali, while South Africa looks to capitalize on a ‘home’ advantage against Zimbabwe in Durban.
Nigeria is favored to earn three points against Lesotho in Polokwane, setting the stage for a thrilling finish to the qualifiers.
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos expressed confidence despite the doubts surrounding his team’s chances. “It’s amazing to me that people are starting to doubt that we can qualify,” he said, urging his players to focus on their games rather than external pressures.
Matchday 9 Fixtures
– 14:00: South Sudan vs. Senegal
– 15:00: Gambia vs. Gabon
– 15:00: Togo vs. DR Congo
– 15:00: Seychelles vs. Ivory Coast
– 15:00: Sudan vs. Mauritania
– 18:00: Sao Tome & Principe vs. Tunisia
– 18:00: Rwanda vs. Benin
– 18:00: Lesotho vs. Nigeria
– 18:00: Zimbabwe vs. South Africa
