There was nothing to separate Group H foes Namibia and Equatorial Guinea on Monday in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying as the teams played to a 1-1 draw at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa.
It was an even clash throughout. The first half was mostly a stalemate with Namibia star striker Peter Shalulile having the best opportunity after the Mamelodi Sundowns player was played behind the defense. Desperate defending hindered Shalulile enough to fire his shot wide.
Things quickly heated up early in the second half. A free kick from the left wing for Namibia resulted in a perfect whipped delivery by Deon Hotto to find Shalulile, who volleyed in at the far post.
Equatorial Guinea, fighting for their qualifying hopes after forfeiting the first two Group H matches due to Emilio Nsue's ineligibility, fought back quickly. Awarded a free kick of their own on the left wing three minutes later, José Machín curled a firm delivery on goal and Namibia goalkeeper Edward Maova spilled the ball where Saúl Coco arrived to turn in the rebound.
The Nzalang Nacional went on to be the more dangerous team for the rest of the match. Midfielder Pablo Ganet volleyed just wide in the 74th minute from a clever Iván Salvador Edú corner kick. Nsue had a brilliant chance to win it three minutes later when Basilio Ndong picked out his run with a cross but Nsue's finish went wide.
The biggest winner from the early match on Monday is Tunisia who can now stretch their lead at the top of Group H to four points if the Carthage Eagles win at home against Malawi. Namibia are currently a point back in second place while Equatorial Guinea are six points back in fourth place.
Group H Table
GP | Points | |
Tunisia | 5 | 13 |
Namibia | 6 | 12 |
Liberia | 5 | 7 |
Eq. Guinea | 6 | 7 |
Malawi | 5 | 6 |
São Tomé | 5 | 0 |
The group winner qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Four of the group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental qualifying playoff.
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