A record ten African teams are competing at the 2026 World Cup, double the number from 2022. Their performances have been mixed, with some exceeding expectations and others struggling. A crucial match between Senegal and Norway on Monday will significantly influence perceptions of African football at this tournament.
Expansion and Representation
The World Cup expansion from 32 to 48 teams benefited Africa the most. The Confederation of African Football (Caf) received nine automatic slots, and secured a tenth when DR Congo beat Jamaica in a playoff. Caf had long argued for more representation, noting that its 54 members had only five slots compared to Conmebol's four for ten members. Critics pointed to Conmebol's nine World Cup victories versus Africa's best being quarter-final appearances. However, at the 2022 World Cup, Morocco became the first African semi-finalist.
Disappointments
Tunisia have been dreadful, undermined by shambolic leadership. They sacked manager Sabri Lamouchi after a 5-1 defeat to Sweden and then lost 4-0 to Japan under Hervé Renard, their seventh coach since qualifying began. South Africa bafflingly adopted a back five for their opening game and were well-beaten by Mexico. A late penalty brought a draw against Czechia, but their passive style feels like a betrayal of the progressive football under Hugo Broos. Algeria's defensive frailties, exposed by Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations, were shown up again in a 3-0 loss to Argentina. Monday's game against Jordan is vital for stability.
Promising Performances
Morocco and Côte d'Ivoire both led against former World Cup winners but failed to finish the job. Morocco dominated Brazil before the first-half hydration break but only scored once, later beating Scotland 1-0. Côte d'Ivoire matched Germany for an hour, leading through counter-attacks from Amad Diallo and Yan Diomande, but Germany's depth saw them win with two goals from substitute Deniz Undav. Senegal held France comfortably in the first half but faded in a 3-1 defeat, a pattern of African sides tiring late that may indicate a lack of depth or belief against elite teams.
Encouraging Signs
Ghana bucked the trend with a late win over Panama, showing the gritty resilience typical of a Carlos Queiroz side. Egypt, after failing to hold a lead against Belgium, overwhelmed New Zealand in the second half and now top Group G. The minnows, Cape Verde and DR Congo, have performed creditably. DR Congo went behind early to Portugal but equalised and held on. Cape Verde held Spain and then drew a thriller against Uruguay.
Outlook
Egypt, Morocco, and Côte d'Ivoire should advance. Ghana have a good chance, Cape Verde and DR Congo have exceeded expectations, Algeria need a result on Monday, Senegal face a tough draw, South Africa have an outside chance, and Tunisia are done. The total advancing will likely be around five or six, justifying the increased representation. The next step is converting leads against top sides into wins.
