The FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Africa are renowned for their fierce competition, showcasing some of the continent’s most exceptional football talents. These qualifiers often produce national heroes, with players delivering crucial goals, assists, and defensive masterclasses to propel their teams toward the global stage. From seasoned professionals in Europe’s elite leagues to emerging stars making their mark, these matches highlight skill, resilience, and passion. Whether it’s a prolific striker leading the goal charts, a playmaking midfielder dictating the tempo, or a goalkeeper making match-winning saves, Africa’s World Cup qualifiers always deliver unforgettable performances.
Mohamed Amoura (Algeria)
The Wolfsburg striker was instrumental in Algeria’s two victories. He netted a brace in their 3-1 win over Botswana before delivering a stunning performance against Mozambique, scoring a hat-trick and providing an assist in a dominant 5-1 triumph. Amoura’s energy and chemistry with Riyad Mahrez proved vital, with Mahrez stating, “We know what he can do, so we try to make the most of it. He’s quick – we all try to play to each other’s strengths.”
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
Determined to turn Nigeria’s campaign around after a shaky start, Victor Osimhen played a pivotal role in their crucial 2-0 victory over Rwanda in Group C. He opened the scoring in the 11th minute, converting a precise cross from Ademola Lookman, before doubling Nigeria’s lead in first-half stoppage time (45+3’). Despite a setback against Zimbabwe, where Osimhen scored the only goal for Nigeria before a defensive lapse led to an equalizer, the Fenerbahce striker remains a key figure in Nigeria’s World Cup quest.
Lyle Foster (South Africa)
Foster came close to scoring in South Africa’s match against Lesotho, hitting the post before the ball ricocheted off the goalkeeper’s back onto the upright. However, he found success against Benin, as his shot from a Fawaaz Basadien cross slipped through the goalkeeper’s legs, rebounded off the post, and trickled over the line. His goal helped Bafana Bafana secure a 2-0 win, propelling the 2010 World Cup hosts to the top of Group C.
Yahia Fofana (Côte d’Ivoire)
Côte d’Ivoire climbed to the top of Group F with two narrow 1-0 victories over Burundi and The Gambia, thanks to their solid defense. A key factor in their success was goalkeeper Yahia Fofana, who kept clean sheets in both matches. His crucial saves, including a well-timed block to deny Omar Colley and a last-minute stop against Alassana Jatta, ensured the African champions remained unbeaten in the qualifiers.
Lassina Traoré (Burkina Faso)
Traoré played a decisive role in Burkina Faso’s rise to second place in Group A. He started the week with an assist and a close-range finish in a 4-1 win over Djibouti before scoring twice against Guinea-Bissau—a well-placed shot across goal and a powerful header from a free kick—to secure a narrow 2-1 victory.
Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon)
Mbeumo has been in stellar form for Brentford in the Premier League, tallying 15 goals and five assists, making him the second-highest African scorer behind Mohamed Salah. He carried this form into international duty, hitting the crossbar in a frustrating draw against Eswatini before delivering a standout performance against Libya. A composed left-footed finish put Cameroon 2-0 ahead, and he later assisted Vincent Aboubakar to seal the victory.
Thomas Partey (Ghana)
Partey’s brace propelled Ghana to an emphatic 3-0 victory over Madagascar on Matchday 6. He opened the scoring in the 11th minute before doubling the lead in the 58th. Mohamed Kudus then put the match beyond doubt with a third goal, ensuring Ghana’s fifth win and strengthening their position at the top of Group I. With four matches remaining, the Black Stars are firmly on course for World Cup qualification.
Denis Bouanga (Gabon)
Gabon remains a strong contender in Group F, trailing Côte d’Ivoire by just one point. With Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang watching from the stands, Denis Bouanga stepped up, scoring twice against Seychelles—first with a well-placed finish and then with a simple tap-in, which he celebrated with an Aubameyang-style somersault. Bouanga continued his fine form against Kenya, striking the post in a hard-fought 2-1 victory
The African World Cup qualifiers continue to showcase extraordinary talent, resilience, and drama, ensuring football fans across the continent remain captivated as the road to the global stage unfolds.
