Botswana triumph over Somalia to keep 2026 World Cup dream alive

In the Group G encounter, Botswana drew first blood through Thabang Sesinyi's early header, but Somalia refused to go down without a fight.

The underdogs found an equalizer in the 74th minute when Sak Hassan fired home from close range.

However, Botswana's resilience shone through as they regained the lead almost immediately, Kabelo Seakanyeng coolly converting from the penalty spot.

Mosha Gaolaolwe then put the result beyond doubt with a clinical finish to make it 3-1.

The win sees Botswana climb to second in the group with six points, while Somalia remain rooted to the bottom, still searching for their first point.

In Group H, Equatorial Guinea and Malawi played out a cagey affair in Malabo, with chances at a premium.

The decisive moment came in the 81st minute when Iban Salvador pounced on a loose ball in the box to slam home the winner for the hosts.

Malawi threw bodies forward in the dying stages but couldn't find an equalizer, leaving them fourth in the group with six points.

Equatorial Guinea's first victory lifts them to fifth, keeping their slender World Cup hopes flickering.

Both groups remain finely poised with some matchdays remaining.

Botswana and Equatorial Guinea will be buoyed by their wins as they target surprise qualification for the 2026 showpiece in North America.