JOHANNESBURG, March 17, (V7N) – The spotlight is on struggling Nigeria and surprising Sudan as Africa's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers resume this week.

Nigeria, once a dominant force in Group C, are shockingly fifth in the six-team group despite boasting stars like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. Since their 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final loss, the Super Eagles have seen three coaching changes, with newly appointed Eric Chelle now tasked with reviving their campaign.

Meanwhile, Sudan, initially expected to struggle, lead Group B ahead of their crucial clash with Senegal. However, the war-torn nation's home match will be played in Benghazi, Libya due to the ongoing Sudanese civil war.

Egypt, led by top scorers Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet, aim to extend their four-point lead in Group A. Ethiopia, forced to play their "home" match in Morocco, face a daunting challenge against the Pharaohs.

Sudan’s coach Kwesi Appiah is rallying his team to believe they can match Senegal’s stars, including Sadio Mané. The Teranga Lions, however, will miss Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson due to injury.

Nigeria must be wary after suffering an AFCON qualifying shock against Rwanda last year. Both teams have new coaches, with Adel Amrouche taking charge of Rwanda.

Former South African striker Benni McCarthy makes his debut as Kenya's head coach, aiming to guide the Harambee Stars to their first-ever World Cup.

Ghana, desperate to recover from a poor AFCON campaign, face a Chad side in disarray, with key players boycotting and a last-minute coaching change. Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew, and Antoine Semenyo are expected to lead the Black Stars to victory.

With only group winners securing direct qualification, the upcoming matches could prove decisive in shaping Africa’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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