Morocco

Third-string goalkeeper Abdelhakim El Mesbahi came off the bench near the end of extra time and made the decisive save in the shootout as Morocco defeated France 5-4 on penalties Wednesday to qualify for its first Under-20 World Cup final.

There's still so much up for grabs across the nine groups for Africa's sides, with only two teams -- Morocco and Tunisia -- guaranteed to take their place among the elite in North America next year.

Marseille defender Nayef Aguerd said via social media that a man assaulted him at the Marseille-Provence airport while he was waiting to take a flight to Morocco to join his national team.

Spain and Lamine Yamal took top spot from Argentina and Lionel Messi in the FIFA men's rankings published on Thursday.

Here are the big talking points following gameweek seven of Africa's World Cup qualifying campaign... and a look ahead to the major storylines to follow as competition resumes across the continent this week.

Morocco became the first African country to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a comprehensive 5-0 win over Niger on Friday.

While some of Africa's top teams could secure their places in the USA, Canada and Mexico for next year's FIFA World Cup, other heavyweights are in danger of missing out completely... yes, we're talking about you, Nigeria.

Women's Africa Cup of Nations hosts Morocco dispatched Ghana 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat to set up a final showdown with Nigeria at the same venue on Saturday.

Orlando Pirates have named former Morocco international Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new head coach, following the departure of Jose Riveiro before the end of the recently concluded Betway Premiership season.

A crucial penalty save by Yassine Bounou helped Al Hilal claim an impressive draw with Real Madrid at the FIFA Club World Cup.