FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: Egypt cruise, Madagascar shine, Burkina Faso stay in the Hunt

The race for qualification to the FIFA World Cup 2026 intensified across Africa on Wednesday, with decisive results in Groups A and I shaping the path toward the global showpiece.

Egypt continued their dominant form, Madagascar surged into contention, and Burkina Faso kept their hopes alive.

Djibouti 0–3 Egypt (Group A)

Egypt produced another commanding display, defeating Djibouti 3–0 to consolidate their lead in Group A.

Ibrahim Adel opened the scoring after eight minutes, and captain Mohamed Salah added a superb brace (14’, 84’) to secure the win.

With one match remaining, Egypt remain in firm control of Group A with qualification secured. 

Sierra Leone 0–1 Burkina Faso (Group A)

Burkina Faso edged Sierra Leone 1–0 away to keep their qualification dreams intact.

Mohamed Zougrana struck the game’s only goal in the 42nd minute, ensuring the Stallions claimed all three points. The result keeps them within touching distance of group leaders Egypt, who continue to dominate the standings.

Comoros 1–2 Madagascar (Group I)

Madagascar climbed into second place in Group I after a resilient 2–1 away victory over Comoros.

The hosts took an early lead through Clément Couturier in the 11th minute, but Madagascar rallied in the second half. El Hadary Raheriniaina levelled matters in the 73rd minute before Rafiki Saïd completed the comeback eight minutes later.

The win moves Madagascar into second behind Ghana, maintaining their push for a historic World Cup appearance, while Comoros’ hopes suffered a major blow.