The group stage of Africa’s (CAF) 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualification tournament will wrap up with two Matchdays in early to mid October, as the continent’s top nations battle for spots at the global showpiece in North America.
Here are five key clashes to watch on SuperSport on DStv and GOtv.
Central Africa Republic v Ghana
Ghana face the Central African Republic in a crucial CAF World Cup qualifier on Matchday 9 in Group I. A win could see the Black Stars seal qualification, provided Madagascar fail to beat Comoros away. Ghana, currently leading the group, will rely on their experience and attacking depth, while CAR aim to play spoiler with a spirited home performance. With qualification within reach, Ghana must stay focused against a determined opponent. All eyes will also be on the Madagascar-Comoros clash, which could significantly influence the group standings. It’s a high-stakes encounter that could shape Africa’s road to the 2026 World Cup.
Wednesday 8 October
18:00: CAR v Ghana – LIVE on SuperSport PSL, SuperSport Africa, SuperSport Maximo 1 and SuperSport Maximo 360
Botswana v Uganda
Uganda travel to Botswana for a must-win CAF World Cup qualifier on Matchday 9 in Group G. With Algeria all but certain to top the group and claim direct qualification, Uganda’s hopes hinge on securing a strong runners-up position. The Cranes must take all three points to stay in contention for their first-ever World Cup appearance. Botswana, effectively out of the running, will be playing for pride and could pose a threat at home. Uganda must remain sharp and clinical, knowing that any slip-up could end their dream. Every goal and point now matters in the race for qualification.
Wednesday 8 October
18:00: Botswana v Uganda – LIVE on SuperSport PSL, SuperSport Africa and SuperSport Maximo 3
Zimbabwe v South Africa
South Africa face Zimbabwe on Matchday 9 of the CAF World Cup qualifiers in a vital Group C clash. Bafana Bafana currently top the group, though their position is under review pending a disciplinary inquiry involving Teboho Mokoena, which could result in a three-point deduction. Regardless, victory against the Warriors is crucial to stay on course for a return to the World Cup for the first time since hosting it in 2010. Zimbabwe, already out of contention, will be looking to disrupt their neighbours’ campaign. With pressure mounting, South Africa must deliver a focused performance to maintain control of their destiny.
Friday 10 October
18:00: Zimbabwe v South Africa – LIVE on SuperSport PSL, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360
Liberia v Namibia
Liberia host Namibia on Matchday 9 of the CAF World Cup qualifiers in Group H, with Tunisia already confirmed as group winners. However, there’s still plenty at stake for Namibia, who could finish as runners-up and potentially reach November’s playoffs as one of the top-ranked second-placed teams. To keep that hope alive, the Brave Warriors must secure all three points in Monrovia. Liberia, with no realistic path to qualification, will aim to finish their campaign with pride and play spoiler. For Namibia, it’s a must-win encounter – anything less could end their World Cup dream before the final round of fixtures.
Wednesday 8 October
18:00: Liberia v Namibia – LIVE on SuperSport Action Africa and SuperSport OTT7
Nigeria v Benin
Nigeria face Benin on Matchday 10 of the CAF World Cup qualifiers in Group C, with major implications for three teams. South Africa and Benin are currently battling for top spot and the group’s automatic qualification place, but Nigeria could still shake things up. A win for the Super Eagles could see them finish second – and potentially reach the playoffs as one of the best runners-up. However, if South Africa receive a possible three-point deduction, Nigeria could leap back into direct contention. With everything on the line, this clash in Uyo could prove decisive in shaping Group C’s final outcome.
Tuesday 14 October
18:00: Nigeria v Benin – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Africa