Nine African countries have secured automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the conclusion of the final round of matches in the qualifiers.

South Africa, Senegal, and Côte d'Ivoire became the latest countries to confirm their places at the global showpiece after finishing top of their respective groups.

Bafana Bafana thrashed Rwanda 3-0 at home to finish top of Group C with 18 points.

The Teranga Lions of Senegal also hammered Mauritania 4-0 to edge out DR Congo and top Group B with 24 points.

The Elephants of Côte d'Ivoire defeated Kenya 3-0 to qualify for the Mundial for the fourth time in the country's history.

South Africa, Senegal, and Côte d'Ivoire join Ghana, Tunisia, Egypt, Morocco, Cape Verde, and Algeria as the African countries that have already booked their spots for the tournament to be co-hosted by Canada, the USA, and Mexico in 2026.

Meanwhile, the likes of Gabon, Cameroon, Nigeria, and DR Congo will compete in the African playoffs for a place in the expanded 48-nation tournament.

WDN