🔴 Flash: FIFA lifts Congo's suspension!

A new twist has shaken up the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. On Wednesday, May 14, FIFA officially lifted the suspension imposed on the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFOOT). Congo-Brazzaville is now back in the race, even though their mathematical chances of qualification are all but gone.

Suspended since February 6, the Red Devils saw their March matches recorded as forfeited losses against Tanzania and Zambia. That punishment had dropped them to the bottom of Group E, level with Eritrea… who were disqualified before even playing a match.

Now reinstated in Group E alongside Morocco, Congo will resume qualifying with zero points on the board. This return, though coming late, could still significantly impact the calculations of the other teams.

A more open Group E… but Morocco remains in control

Morocco, the undisputed group leader with 15 points from 5 matches, looked set for a direct ticket to the World Cup. Previously, a draw against Niger would have been enough to secure qualification. But with Congo's return, things have become a little more complicated.

The Atlas Lions will now need to beat Niger in September to avoid any unnecessary drama ahead of their final group match against Congo, scheduled for October. Because even though Congo no longer has a realistic chance to qualify, they can still influence the fate of the others.

Current Group E standings:

1. Morocco – 15 pts
2. Niger – 6 pts
3. Tanzania – 6 pts
4. Zambia – 3 pts
5. Congo – 0 pts
6. Eritrea – 0 pts (withdrawn)

A return without ambition for Congo, but one full of significance for their rivals. In a Group E that's been thrown wide open, caution is now the watchword for every World Cup hopeful.

Amine Jomni |

Editorfr

African football writer and sports journalist covering football news, stories and insights while sharing his expertise with fans across the continent.