Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa all drew their warm-up matches ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers starting in September. Nigeria drew 1-1 with Russia in Moscow, with Tolu Arokodare scoring his first goal for Nigeria after coming off the bench. Senegal also drew 1-1 against the Republic of Ireland, with Ismaila Sarr scoring to equalize late in the match. South Africa played out a goalless 0-0 draw at home against Tanzania in Polokwane. These matches are part of preparations for crucial World Cup qualifiers involving these African football powerhouses later this year.