\n<\/p>\n
Cape Verde are one win away from qualifying for the World Cup for the first time after upsetting continental heavyweights Cameroon 1-0.<\/b><\/p>\n
The Blue Sharks lead the Indomitable Lions by four points with two rounds of fixtures remaining in Group D following a stunning victory secured by Dalion Livramento’s solo effort in the second half in Praia.<\/p>\n
Elsewhere, Pape Matar Sarr scored the winner as Senegal fought back from 2-0 down to beat DR Congo 3-2 and move top of their group.<\/p>\n
Ivory Coast preserved their one-point advantage over Gabon at the summit of Group F after securing a goalless draw away against the Panthers.<\/p>\n
The reigning continental champions, who last featured at the World Cup in 2014, came close to defeat when Shavy Babicka struck the post for the hosts in the 87th minute.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s hopes of automatic progress to the 2026 finals are slim after the Super Eagles could only draw 1-1 away against Group C leaders South Africa when a win was realistically required to stay in contention.<\/p>\n
And Egypt missed the chance to book their spot at the finals with two games to spare in Group A after a goalless draw in Burkina Faso.<\/a><\/p>\n Only the nine group winners in African qualifying are assured of a place at the finals, with the four best-ranked second placed sides entering play-offs for one spot at an intercontinental tournament next year.<\/p>\n Morocco and Tunisia have already secured passage to the finals.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n