Cape Verde, Madagascar, Benin and Comoros keep World Cup dream alive

With just two rounds of matches remaining in the African qualifiers, Cape Verde, Madagascar, Benin and Comoros remain in contention for a place at the 2026 World Cup — a prospect few would have predicted when the campaign began.

The expanded format of the competition has opened the door for surprise challengers, and these four nations, often overlooked in African football, now stand on the brink of potentially historic achievements.

Cape Verde on the cusp of history

Cape Verde are closest to realising their dream.

The Blue Sharks followed up a 2-0 win over Mauritius with a 1-0 victory against Cameroon, moving them to the top of Group D.

Four points clear of the Indomitable Lions, they require just one more win — either against Libya or Eswatini — to guarantee their first-ever appearance at a World Cup.

Coupe du monde 2026 : 2 qualifiés officiels, 3 officieux… Le point sur les qualifications en Afrique #football https://t.co/DJxvwRGhkV pic.twitter.com/9KrnDUXGJG

— Afrik-Foot (@afrikfoot) September 10, 2025

Since their debut at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013, Cape Verde have grown steadily in stature, and their current campaign represents the pinnacle of their progress.

Madagascar still in the hunt

Madagascar remain outsiders, but their story continues to inspire. The island nation, who stunned Africa by reaching the quarter-finals of the 2019 AFCON on their tournament debut, are second in Group I, three points behind leaders Ghana.

To qualify, they must overcome Comoros and Mali in their final fixtures while hoping Ghana falter against the Central African Republic and then Comoros.

The path is difficult, but their resilience has already surprised many.

Comoros fighting against the odds

For Comoros, qualification would mark another chapter in a remarkable rise.

Having only reached the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in 2021, the Coelacanths are now pushing for the global stage.

Currently behind Ghana and Madagascar in Group I, they still control part of their destiny.

Victories against both direct rivals in their final two matches would keep them alive, but their fate also hinges on results involving the Central African Republic and Mali.

Benin eyeing a breakthrough

Benin, the most experienced of the quartet, also remain in the running.

Preparing for their fifth AFCON appearance later this year in Morocco, the Cheetahs sit second in Group C, three points behind South Africa.

To stand a chance, they must beat Rwanda and Nigeria while hoping Bafana Bafana drop points against Zimbabwe or Rwanda.

Realistically, a play-off spot via the ranking of second-placed teams appears their best route, with only the two strongest runners-up advancing.

Coupe du monde 2026 : #Cameroun , RDC, Nigeria… Un casting de choc pour les barrages africains ? #football https://t.co/5dezGdu3Dh pic.twitter.com/WDz0UUoydu

— Afrik-Foot (@afrikfoot) September 10, 2025

As the qualifiers near their conclusion, these four nations carry the hopes of writing new chapters in African football history.

Their chances may be slim, but with two matches left, the World Cup dream is still alive.