The 2026 FIFA World Cup is about to get bigger than ever. For the first time, 48 nations will play, with games spread across Canada, Mexico, and the United States starting 11 June 2026.
FIFA confirmed 1,248 players made the final squads. 891 will be World Cup debutants, 357 are coming back for another shot.
Africa has 10 teams this time – the continent’s biggest representation yet. The teams: Algeria, Cabo Verde, DR Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia. Each squad mixes big-name stars with fresh talent. The question now: who can go deep?
The Contenders Morocco – The Trailblazers
Africa’s best performer at Qatar 2022 when they reached the semi-finals. That run changed how the world sees African football. This year they’re led by the same core: Achraf Hakimi’s pace at right-back, Yassine Bounou’s safe hands in goal, Sofyan Amrabat’s engine in midfield, and Brahim Díaz’s creativity.
If any African team can reach the semis again, it’s Morocco. They’ve got the experience and the belief.
Senegal – The Lions With Firepower
African champions in 2021, and still dangerous. Sadio Mané gives them world-class attacking threat even as he ages. Kalidou Koulibaly anchors the defence, and Nicolas Jackson adds young energy up front.
Senegal’s mix of physicality and speed makes them tough for any group. Quarter-finals are a realistic target if they avoid injuries.
Egypt – Salah’s Last Dance?
Mohamed Salah remains Africa’s biggest global star. At 34 in 2026, this could be his final World Cup. He’ll carry Egypt’s hopes alongside Omar Marmoush, who’s been scoring freely in Europe.
Egypt’s challenge has always been squad depth beyond Salah. If he’s fit and firing, they can get out of the group. Past that depends on the supporting cast.
Côte d’Ivoire – Defending African Kings
They won AFCON 2023, so confidence is high. Franck Kessié and Seko Fofana bring midfield steel, and Amad Diallo adds flair. They’re young, bold, and used to winning big games. Don’t be surprised if they match Morocco’s 2022 energy. Round of 16 is minimum, quarter-finals possible.
The Dark Horses Ghana – Power + Pace
Thomas Partey runs the midfield, Jordan Ayew brings experience, and Inaki Williams + Antoine Semenyo give Ghana serious speed on the break. Ghana has always been an “upset” team at World Cups.
With an expanded tournament, they’ve got a clearer path to the knockouts. If Partey stays fit, they can trouble anyone.
Algeria – Mahrez Leading a New Generation
Riyad Mahrez is still the main man, but Amine Gouiri and Mohamed Amoura represent Algeria’s next wave.
Algeria plays smart, technical football. They struggled in 2022, but this squad looks more balanced. Group stage escape is the goal. Anything more would be a bonus.
Tunisia & South Africa – Organised and Gritty
Both teams are built on discipline and teamwork rather than superstars. Tunisia always makes opponents work hard. South Africa returns to the World Cup after years away and will lean on home-continent support and fast wingers. For both, getting past the group is success.
DR Congo & Cape Verde – First-Timers With Nothing to Lose
DR Congo is back after a long wait and brings raw talent + physical power. Cape Verde is the smallest nation at the tournament but plays fearless football.
No pressure on them. In a bigger World Cup, one surprise result can change everything. Don’t write them off for a shock point or two.
Africa’s Chances Overall
Morocco proved in 2022 that African teams can reach the last four. That broke a mental barrier. With 10 teams, more World Cup games, and more debutants, Africa has its best shot yet to get multiple teams into the Round of 16 and beyond.
The expanded format helps. More slots mean fewer “group of death” scenarios. Teams like Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and Morocco have the quality to go to quarter-finals.
Egypt and Ghana can do damage if their stars stay fit. The other five will aim to win games, gain experience, and show that African football keeps rising.
Kick-off is 11 June 2026. For Africa, it’s not just about participation anymore. After Morocco’s 2022 run, the target is clear: more teams, more wins, and maybe another semi-final.
Which African team are you backing to go furthest in 2026?
