World Cup 2026 qualifying: Nigeria get first win, Salah nets for Egypt

Victor Osimhen inspired Nigeria to their first win in World Cup 2026 qualifying, while Mohamed Salah helped strengthen Egypt’s bid to reach the finals.

Algeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast and South Africa all moved top of their groups and Morocco sealed a late victory amid a busy day which saw 11 qualifiers played across the continent.

Liverpool forward Salah calmly put Egypt in front away against Ethiopia and then turned provider for Zizo to double the lead before the break.

The Pharaohs have established a five-point lead in Group A at the halfway stage of the campaign.

Meanwhile, on-loan Galatasaray striker Osimhen netted both goals in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory in Rwanda, and the Super Eagles are now four points behind South Africa in Group C.

Bafana Bafana moved to the summit after overcoming a stubborn Lesotho side 2-0 thanks to second-half strikes from Relebohile Mofokeng and Jayden Adams.

Only the nine group winners are assured of a place at the expanded 48-team World Cup finals next year.

The four best second-placed sides after 10 games will enter play-offs, with the winners getting a chance to qualify via an intercontinental tournament.