The journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup—set to be hosted by Canada, the USA, and Mexico—hits a crucial turning point this weekend as Africa’s top national teams clash in decisive Matchday 5 qualifiers. From the vibrant streets of Lagos to the highlands of Rwanda, the continent’s football powerhouses are ready to ignite passions and fight for vital points.
Countries like Nigeria, Egypt, Algeria, Ghana, and many more are ready to provide exciting encounters with hopes of world fame on the line. The games this weekend are more than simply contests; they are crucial turning points in the race for a coveted World Cup spot.
Must-Watch Matchups: Nigeria Faces Crucial Test in Rwanda
All eyes will be on Kigali as Nigeria faces Rwanda in a potentially decisive Group C clash. The Super Eagles, under immense pressure, must secure a victory to keep their qualification hopes alive. Simultaneously, South Africa will host Lesotho, adding another layer of intrigue to Group C’s dramatic narrative.
In other highly anticipated matches, Algeria will kick off the action against Botswana, while Egypt faces a challenging away fixture against Ethiopia. The late-night showdown between Niger and Morocco promises to be a spectacle, with both teams vying for supremacy in Group E.
Full Schedule: Don’t Miss a Kick
Here’s the comprehensive schedule for Matchday 5 of the Africa 2026 World Cup Qualifiers (all times in GMT):
Friday, 21 March 2025:
- Group G: Botswana vs. Algeria (13:00)
- Group H: Equatorial Guinea vs. São Tomé and Príncipe (13:00)
- Group A: Burkina Faso vs. Djibouti (16:00)
- Group B: DR Congo vs. South Sudan (16:00)
- Group C: Rwanda vs. Nigeria (16:00) & South Africa vs. Lesotho (16:00)
- Group G: Burundi vs. Côte d’Ivoire (19:00) & Ghana vs. Chad (19:00)
- Group A: Ethiopia vs. Egypt (21:00)
- Group G: Guinea vs. Somalia (21:00)
- Group E: Niger vs. Morocco (21:30)
Saturday, 22 March 2025:
- Group B: Togo vs. Mauritania (16:00)
- Group B: Sudan vs. Senegal (19:00)
Drama, excitement, and crucial outcomes from this weekend’s qualifications are expected to influence the African landscape of the 2026 World Cup trip.
