Africa will send a record 10 teams to the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the tournament’s expansion from 32 to 48 nations. The increased representation reflects both the continent’s growing football strength and years of advocacy for greater inclusion. The contingent includes perennial contenders Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, and Algeria, along with emerging forces such as Cape Verde. Meanwhile, Morocco’s historic semifinal run at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar transformed expectations across Africa, replacing the continent’s culture of mere participation at previous tournaments with genuine contender status. Another notable trend is the rise of locally connected coaches, with eight teams now led by homegrown managers or members of the diaspora. While logistical challenges across North America’s vast geography could prevent local fans from attending the games, analysts believe that large African diaspora communities across the US and Canada could provide valuable support. The tournament offers Africa its strongest opportunity yet to challenge football’s traditional power structures.
The Conversation
