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Several African nations have secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, with South Africa returning after 2010, Ghana qualifying automatically, and other countries like Algeria and Egypt also confirmed. Meanwhile, ongoing qualifiers in Asia and the Middle East continue to shape the final lineup for the expanded tournament.
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Recent credit rating updates reveal contrasting economic trajectories across African nations. Egypt's rating was upgraded due to reforms and growth, while Senegal's was downgraded amid fiscal challenges. These shifts highlight differing economic reforms and regional risks, with implications for investor confidence and regional stability.
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England became the first European team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, with other teams from Africa, Asia, and Oceania also securing spots. Forty-three teams will qualify through continental tournaments, with two more in intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March. The three host nations qualify automatically.
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Cory Kapahulehua, 44, was sentenced to 187 years in prison after being convicted of abusing two students he taught at a Mesa school. The abuse began in 2021 and continued until his arrest in 2023. He was convicted of 17 child sex abuse and rape charges.
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The UK has pledged £850 million to the Global Fund for 2026-28, a 15% reduction from previous commitments, amid broader aid cuts. This move risks reversing progress in fighting AIDS, TB, and malaria, potentially causing hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths and weakening health systems worldwide.
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The UN Security Council has called for urgent regional action to combat rising terrorism in West Africa and the Sahel, highlighting expanding terrorist networks, increasing violence, and underfunded humanitarian efforts. Leaders emphasize the need for cooperation, trust, and sustained international support to address root causes and regional instability. Date: Fri, 21 Nov 2025.
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Guinea-Bissau's military seized power after disputed elections, suspending the government and arresting President Embaló. The AU and ECOWAS condemned the coup, which follows a pattern of regional instability and political crises fueled by corruption and drug trafficking. The military plans a one-year transition.
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Multiple West African countries, including Guinea-Bissau and Mali, have experienced military coups in recent days, disrupting elections and constitutional order. Regional bodies like ECOWAS condemn these actions, calling for restoration of democracy amid ongoing political instability and regional tensions.
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The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco features star players like Mohamed Salah, Achraf Hakimi, Victor Osimhen, and others. Injuries and squad changes mark the build-up, with teams aiming for continental glory amid recent setbacks and strategic reshuffles.
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The US announced new partial and full entry restrictions on nationals from several African countries and others, citing security concerns and civil record issues. The measures, effective January 1, 2026, target countries with high visa overstay rates and corruption, with exemptions for athletes and certain travelers. The move follows recent security incidents and aims to enhance vetting.
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The US State Department has notified at least 29 ambassadors, mostly appointed during Biden's administration, that their postings will end in January. The move affects key countries in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, as part of a broader effort to align diplomacy with the current administration's priorities.
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Senegal beat Sudan 3-1 in the Africa Cup of Nations, with Ibrahim Mbaye scoring a late goal after coming off the bench. Senegal, the defending champions, will face either Mali or Tunisia in the quarter-finals. Sudan was eliminated despite a spirited performance, and other matches shaped the knockout stage standings today.
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On December 31, 2025, a boat carrying over 200 migrants capsized near Jinack Village in Gambia's North Bank region. Rescue efforts have saved 102 survivors and recovered seven bodies. The vessel was found grounded on a sandbank. The tragedy highlights the deadly Atlantic migration route from West Africa to Europe, with ongoing government investigations and intensified rescue operations.
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Egypt's national football team defeated Ivory Coast 3-2 in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals, with Mohamed Salah scoring his fourth goal of the tournament. Nigeria also advanced after beating Algeria 2-0. Egypt will face Senegal in the semi-finals, with Salah aiming for his first AFCON title.
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Morocco, Nigeria, Egypt, and Senegal remain in contention at the Africa Cup of Nations. Morocco leads with a strong home record, while Nigeria and Egypt aim for their first titles in years. Senegal, the 2022 finalists, faces Cameroon in the semi-finals. The tournament showcases top African talent and intense competition.
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Senegal and Ivory Coast fans face travel bans to the US due to new entry restrictions, affecting support at the upcoming World Cup. Despite exceptions for players, supporters without visas are barred, prompting concern among fans and teams about limited attendance and logistical challenges.