Algeria, Egypt, and Morocco took major strides toward World Cup qualification with critical victories on Tuesday. Meanwhile, South Africa’s campaign is on shaky ground after fielding an ineligible player — a move that could cost them vital points.
South Africa’s Win Clouded by Controversy
South Africa’s 2-0 win over Benin should have been a statement of strength. Instead, it’s mired in uncertainty. Reports emerged shortly after their victory that midfielder Teboho Mokoena played in last Friday’s match against Lesotho despite being suspended due to two prior yellow cards.
The fallout was swift. Mokoena was dropped for Tuesday’s game, but the damage may already be done. Coach Hugo Broos stayed tight-lipped, only offering, “I’m not commenting on the matter, it is something that will be sorted over the next week.”
History isn’t on South Africa’s side here. Previous African qualifiers saw similar mistakes punished with point deductions. If that happens, their five-point cushion atop Group C could vanish.
Nigeria’s stumble against Zimbabwe — a 1-1 draw after a dramatic last-minute equalizer from Tawanda Chirewa — keeps South Africa in front, for now. But with four matches left and Rwanda and Benin still lurking, any lost points could flip the group standings.
Algeria Dominates with Amoura’s Hat-Trick
Algeria didn’t just win; they made a statement. Mohamed Amoura delivered a blistering hat-trick in their 5-1 demolition of Mozambique. It wasn’t just a victory — it was a warning shot to the rest of Group G.
The result gives Algeria a three-point lead over Mozambique, tightening their grip on a World Cup ticket. Amoura’s performance was electric, slicing through Mozambique’s defense like a hot knife through butter.
For Algeria, it’s more than just a win. It’s a momentum-builder at a pivotal stage.
Egypt and Morocco Keep the Pressure On
Egypt’s match against Sierra Leone wasn’t pretty, but it didn’t need to be. Ahmed Zizo’s goal just before halftime was enough to secure a 1-0 win in Cairo. It wasn’t the flashiest performance, but it did the job — Egypt now sits five points clear in Group A.
Morocco, on the other hand, kept their perfect record intact. Their 2-0 win over Tanzania featured a rock-solid defensive display and goals from Nayef Aguerd and Brahim Diaz.
Aguerd’s goal came just after halftime, a towering header that cracked open Tanzania’s resolve. Diaz doubled the lead from the penalty spot minutes later. From there, Morocco locked things down. Tanzania never looked like getting back into the match.
Cape Verde’s Surprise Upset Shakes Up Group D
Cape Verde delivered the shock of the night, pulling off a stunning 2-1 away win over Angola. Dailon Livramento scored twice, propelling the tiny island nation to the top of Group D — leapfrogging Cameroon by a single point.
Cameroon did their part, beating Libya 3-1 with two goals from Karl Toko Ekambi. But Cape Verde’s upset flipped the script, and now they hold the group’s top spot.
It’s a tight race. One slip from Cape Verde, and Cameroon could reclaim control. But for now, the underdogs are on top.
What Happens Next?
South Africa’s situation hangs like a dark cloud over the qualifiers. If they lose points, Nigeria — despite their own missteps — could find themselves back in contention.
Algeria, Egypt, and Morocco look increasingly comfortable, but nothing’s guaranteed in African football. One misstep, one red card, one defensive lapse — it can all unravel in an instant.
The road to the World Cup is never smooth. But for now, Algeria, Egypt, and Morocco have the green light. South Africa, though? They’re stuck at a yellow, waiting to see if it turns red.
