Rabat to Host 2026 African World Cup Qualifying Play-Offs

The Moroccan capital Rabat will take center stage in African football next month as it hosts the 2026 African World Cup qualifying play-offs, featuring four powerhouse teams: Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, and Nigeria, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) confirmed on Wednesday.

The play-offs, scheduled for November 13, promise intense matchups as nations battle for a spot in the intercontinental play-offs that could secure their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Which Teams Will Face Off in Rabat?

The opening semi-final will see Nigeria take on Gabon in what’s expected to be a high-energy clash between two attacking giants. Fans can look forward to an exciting showdown between Victor Osimhen, the Nigerian forward currently shining in Turkey, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Marseille.

Nigeria’s qualification to this stage came dramatically, thanks to an Osimhen hat-trick against Rwanda, which gave the Super Eagles an edge on goal difference over Burkina Faso. Meanwhile, Gabon will be counting on Aubameyang’s experience and pace to push them closer to their first World Cup appearance.

Later that evening, at a separate venue, Cameroon will meet DR Congo in another highly anticipated encounter. Cameroon, the African team with a record eight World Cup appearances, will look to extend their legacy under experienced leadership. DR Congo, on the other hand, are seeking to return to the world stage for the first time since 1974, when they competed as Zaire and endured a difficult tournament, including a 9-0 defeat to Yugoslavia.

Manchester United striker Bryan Mbeumo, who recently scored twice against Brighton, is expected to feature for Cameroon, adding even more firepower to their attack.

What’s at Stake for African Teams?

The winners of this mini-tournament will advance to the six-nation intercontinental play-offs in March 2026, where they will face teams from other confederations for two remaining World Cup slots.

Already, Bolivia and New Caledonia have confirmed their participation in the global play-offs. Iraq or the UAE will represent Asia, while Curacao and Costa Rica are leading contenders for the Caribbean and Central American spots.

With top African talent heading to Rabat, the tournament promises to deliver high-quality football and emotional moments as nations fight to keep their World Cup dreams alive.

By Yockshard Enyendi