2026 WORLD CUP: African teams to rise at the World Cup

In this year’s tournament two teams that topped their group will advance to the knockout stage, but three teams that finished third who had a good run will also qualify.

The World Cup will start on the 11 of June till 19 July and is co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

Here we look at the African teams that could possibly go behind the group stages phase, as this year’s edition promises to have lots of surprises in store.

Morocco: Africa’s benchmark of excellence

The Atlas Lions arrives in this competition as the continent’s most respected team after their historic 2022 World Cup semi-final run, where they eliminated Portugal to reach that stage.

A lot again will be expected from Morocco to shine; this side is built on defensive discipline, tactical maturity, and a core of players competing at top European clubs, the likes of PSG’s Achraf Hakimi and Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz, to mention a few.

They are drawn in Group C alongside Brazil, Haiti, and Scotland. Looking at their opponents, a team that will give them problems is the Brazilians.

Verdict: Strong candidates for second place, with a realistic chance of progression either directly or as one of the best third-placed teams.

Senegal: disciplined, physical, and proven

Senegal has been one side that a lot is expected from on the international stage. The Lions of Teranga remain one of Africa’s most complete teams, combining athletic power with tactical organisation.

This is a team that has experienced leaders on the pitch such as Sadio Mané, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Idrissa Gueye. They also have upcoming talent that has made them a consistent force in international tournaments.

Senegal are placed in a competitive Group I as they are pitted against France, Iraq, and Norway.

Their progression on the tournament will depend on has made them a consistent force in international tournaments, especially against Iraq and Norway. However, their tournament experience gives them an edge when margins are tight.

Verdict: If they fail to secure a second-place spot they can surely advance as the third best team as they will compete in their group.

Egypt: Salah leads the charge

When it comes to Egypt, they are also expected to deliver at this level, but they have been disappointing at the World Cup.

Their last appearance was back in 2018 in Russia when they were in Group A and finished with zero points.

In this year’s edition they are in Group G with Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand. Looking at their opponents they game that the Pharaohs are likely to lose is against Belgium.

Verdict: They have potential to defeat Iran and play a draw if they fail to beat New Zealand.

Mo Salah, 33, will be expected to carry his nation, especially since this could be his last World Cup as age is no longer on his side.

Verdict: They are likely to be amongst the best third-place teams.

Ivory Coast: With balance and belief

Ivory Coast arrives with renewed confidence and a well-balanced squad capable of adapting to different styles of play. Their strength lies in depth: defensively solid, physically powerful, and technically capable in attack.

Their group is expected to be challenging, likely featuring Germany, Curacao, and Ecuador, but the Elephants have enough quality to compete for second place.

Verdict: Likely contenders for second place, with knockout qualification well within reach.

Bet on FIFA World Cup 2026

Morocco, Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Egypt all enter with realistic ambitions of progressing to the knockout rounds. Bet on the World Cup tournament with Bet.co.za, as this year’s campaign promises to be electrifying.