Abidjan: Ivory Coast and Senegal claimed Africa’s final two automatic qualifying spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as both sides registered victories on Tuesday. Senegal achieved a commanding 4-0 home victory over Mauritania, securing their position as leaders of Group B. Sadio Mane’s free-kick gave the hosts the lead just before halftime, and he doubled the advantage with a second goal. Iliman Ndiaye contributed with a remarkable solo effort, and Habib Diallo completed the scoring in the closing moments of the match.

According to BBC, the result allowed Senegal, the reigning continental champions, to finish one point ahead of Gabon, who defeated Burundi 2-0 in Franceville with late goals from Bryan Meyo and Mario Lemina. Meanwhile, the Ivory Coast team earned their spot in the World Cup finals for the first time since 2014, completing their 10-game group campaign without conceding a goal. They were one of only two nations on the continent to achieve this feat, alongside Tunisia.

Ivory Coast and Senegal will join Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Ghana, Cape Verde, and South Africa in securing their places at next year’s World Cup finals. An additional team could join this group if they emerge victorious in next month’s continental play-offs and succeed in an inter-confederation tournament scheduled for March next year.

Cameroon, DR Congo, Gabon, and Nigeria emerged as the four best-ranked second-placed sides across the nine groups. One of these teams will have the opportunity to become Africa’s 10th representative at the expanded 48-team World Cup, which will take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The Confederation of African Football has yet to announce a date for the play-off draw.