Expanded African Presence at World Cup
Ten African teams are competing at the 2026 World Cup, double the number from 2022. The Confederation of African Football (Caf) secured nine automatic slots out of 48, plus a tenth when DR Congo beat Jamaica in a playoff. Caf argued for years that its 54 members deserved more representation compared to Conmebol's 10 members with four slots plus a playoff. Critics noted Conmebol had nine World Cup wins, while Caf had only three quarter-finalists. After 2022, Conmebol had 10 wins and Caf its first semi-finalist.
Mixed Results So Far
To justify the extra slots, at least five African teams need to reach the last 32. Results have been hit and miss. Tunisia have been dreadful, undermined by shambolic leadership. They sacked manager Sabri Lamouchi after a 5-1 defeat to Sweden and lost 4-0 to Japan under Hervé Renard, their seventh coach since qualifying began. South Africa adopted a back five against Mexico, lost, then drew with Czechia via a late penalty. They can still advance if they beat South Korea, but their passive style betrays the progressive football under Hugo Broos.
Algeria and Defensive Woes
Algeria’s defensive shortcomings, exposed by Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final, were shown again in a 3-0 loss to Argentina. If your defence can’t handle Akor Adams, there’s little chance of handling Lionel Messi. Monday’s game against Jordan is vital to restore stability.
Promising Performances
Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire have shown promise but failed to finish. Morocco dominated Brazil before the first-half hydration break, scoring only one goal, and beat Scotland 1-0. Côte d’Ivoire matched Germany for an hour, leading through counter-attacks from Amad Diallo and Yan Diomande, but lost 2-1 after two goals from substitute Deniz Undav. Senegal held France 1-1 at halftime but faded to lose 3-1, a pattern of African teams tiring late due to lack of depth, tactical issues, or lack of belief.
Bright Spots and Outlook
Ghana bucked the trend with a late win over Panama, showing gritty resistance under Carlos Queiroz. Egypt, after failing to hold a lead against Belgium, overwhelmed New Zealand in the second half and top Group G. Cape Verde and DR Congo, the minnows, have performed creditably. DR Congo equalised against Portugal and held them, while Cape Verde drew with Spain and Uruguay. Egypt, Morocco, and Côte d’Ivoire should advance; Ghana has a good chance; Cape Verde and DR Congo have exceeded expectations; Algeria needs a result; Senegal may be undone by a cruel draw; South Africa has an outside chance; Tunisia is done. The total advancing may reach five or six, justifying the increased representation. The next step is converting leads against big sides into wins.
