The Carthage Eagles become Africa’s second team to qualify for the expanded 2026 World Cup, with Mohamed Ben Romdhane’s stoppage-time winner capping a determined qualification campaign and fueling regional pride.
Tunisia booked their place at the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a dramatic stoppage-time victory over Equatorial Guinea, becoming the second African nation—after Morocco—to secure qualification.
Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane’s 94th-minute goal delivered a 1-0 win on September 8 in Malabo, igniting celebrations back home and confirming Tunisia’s seventh appearance on football’s biggest stage.
The Carthage Eagles weathered heavy pressure in Malabo, with the hosts desperate to keep their own campaign alive.
But Tunisia’s resilience held firm until the dying moments, when Ben Romdhane struck to secure top spot in Group H. With 19 points from seven wins and one draw, Tunisia completed an unbeaten campaign that showcased defensive discipline and attacking composure. Their qualification is mathematically sealed, no matter the October results.
Morocco had blazed the trail earlier in the week, sealing qualification after a flawless run that reaffirmed their status as 2022 World Cup semi-finalists.
Tunisia now joins them, underlining North Africa’s growing influence on the continent. For the first time, both nations will represent the region in back-to-back tournaments, strengthening Africa’s hand in the expanded 2026 format, which offers nine automatic berths.
Elsewhere, the battle for Africa’s remaining slots is reaching fever pitch. Egypt, South Africa, and the Ivory Coast stand on the brink but must still negotiate October’s decisive fixtures.
Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal remain in contention yet face mounting pressure after inconsistent results and surprise group upsets.
The coming international window sets the stage for a dramatic continental showdown.
Tunisia’s stoppage-time triumph and Morocco’s dominant campaign symbolize a new era for African football—one of resilience, consistency, and continental pride.
With more nations certain to join them in 2026, Africa’s presence in North America promises to be deeper, stronger, and more competitive than ever before.
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