Egypt thrash Djibouti, become third African country to seal 2026 World Cup spot

Egypt have become the third African nation to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a 3–0 victory over Djibouti on Wednesday.

The Pharaohs secured their place at next year’s tournament in North America after maintaining an unbeaten run in Group A.

Ibrahim Adel opened the scoring before captain Mohamed Salah added two more goals in Casablanca to seal top spot with an unassailable 23 points.

The win ensured Egypt joined Morocco and Tunisia as the African teams confirmed so far for the World Cup. Egypt, who will be making their fourth appearance at the global showpiece, finished ahead of Burkina Faso, who defeated Sierra Leone 1–0 in Freetown.

Elsewhere, Cape Verde’s hopes of securing a first-ever World Cup qualification were delayed after a dramatic 3–3 draw with Libya in Tripoli.

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The Islanders came from 3–1 down to level late in the game and were denied a potential winner by a controversial offside call in stoppage time. They now need a win over Eswatini at home on Monday to qualify.

In Group I, Ghana thrashed the Central African Republic 5–0 in Meknes to stay three points clear of Madagascar, who beat Comoros 2–1 in Abidjan.

Mohammed Salisu opened the scoring for Ghana, with Thomas Partey, Alexander Djiku, Jordan Ayew, and Kamaldeen Sulemana adding to the tally. The Black Stars need just a draw against Comoros in Accra on Sunday to advance.

Elsewhere, Cameroon defeated Mauritius 2–0 thanks to goals from Nicolas Ngamaleu and Bryan Mbeumo, while Angola battled from behind to draw 2–2 with Eswatini in new coach Patrice Beaumelle’s debut.

Mali and Ethiopia also recorded wins over Chad and Guinea-Bissau respectively to stay in contention in their groups.

The Star