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Africa’s representation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been finalised after an intense CAF qualifying campaign filled with drama, redemption, and history-making moments. Nine nations—Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana, South Africa, and Cape Verde—have officially booked their tickets to football’s biggest stage in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The qualification journey was one of the most competitive in recent memory, with familiar powerhouses reaffirming their dominance and emerging nations carving their names into the continent’s football folklore.
Ghana – A Return to the Global Stage
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Under head coach Otto Addo, Ghana rediscovered their rhythm and hunger after the heartbreak of missing the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. The Black Stars topped Group I with 25 points from 10 matches, winning eight, drawing once, and losing just one. They scored 23 goals and conceded only six, showcasing balance and maturity across the pitch.
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Their qualification was sealed with a crucial 1–0 win over Comoros in Accra, thanks to a decisive goal from Mohammed Kudus. The result secured Ghana’s fifth World Cup appearance, reaffirming their place among Africa’s football elite. With a new generation blending with experienced campaigners like Thomas Partey and Jordan Ayew, Ghana’s resurgence signals intent for 2026.
Cape Verde – History Written in Blue
The story of Cape Verde is one for the ages. The island nation made history by qualifying for the World Cup for the first time ever, topping Group D ahead of Cameroon. Led by coach Pedro Leitão Brito (Bubista), the Blue Sharks collected 23 points, combining disciplined defending with tactical intelligence.
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Cape Verde’s journey from underdog to history-maker is symbolic of Africa’s evolving football landscape — where smaller nations now dare to dream and deliver on the grandest stage. They follow in the footsteps of Iceland (2018) as one of the smallest nations ever to qualify for the World Cup.
South Africa – Redemption Realised
For the first time since hosting the World Cup in 2010, South Africa are back in the global mix. Bafana Bafana finished top of Group C with 18 points, overcoming a turbulent campaign that even saw them docked three points for fielding an ineligible player earlier in qualification.
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A commanding 3–0 victory over Rwanda in Johannesburg sealed their ticket, marking a symbolic return to the world stage. Coach Hugo Broos has built a resilient side—tactically disciplined and defensively strong—that now dreams of surpassing the group-stage exits of 2010.
The Familiar Faces – Africa’s Consistent Powerhouses
Africa’s traditional giants maintained their stronghold on the continent, each with their own narrative of dominance and determination:
Morocco, Africa’s pride from Qatar 2022 after reaching the semi-finals, comfortably topped Group E, extending their golden generation’s legacy.
Senegal, led by Sadio Mané, continued their remarkable form, finishing unbeaten in Group B and looking primed to build on their consistent World Cup record.
Egypt, under Rui Vitória, regained stability and control, edging past Burkina Faso and Sierra Leone in Group F.
Tunisia and Algeria reaffirmed their status as North African powerhouses, both finishing as group leaders with strong defensive records.
Ivory Coast, now guided by Emerse Faé, qualified from Group G, continuing the resurgence that began with their 2024 AFCON triumph on home soil.
The Bigger Picture
This is the first time nine African nations will participate in a single World Cup — a reflection of the continent’s growing strength, investment, and global football relevance. From Morocco’s 2022 heroics to Cape Verde’s fairy-tale debut, the 2026 edition promises to showcase both Africa’s established might and its fresh new voices.
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Morocco’s semi-final finish in Qatar proved that African teams can go toe-to-toe with the best. Now, with nine representatives, the dream of seeing an African side in a World Cup final no longer feels far-fetched — it feels possible.
Confirmed African Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Morocco
Tunisia
Egypt
Algeria
Senegal
Ivory Coast
Ghana
South Africa
Cape Verde