The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature an expanded format of 48 teams, giving Africa (CAF) a record nine guaranteed slots β up from five at previous tournaments. This historic increase gives the continent its best-ever representation on the global stage.
Among the most anticipated African players is Egypt's Mohamed Salah, the Liverpool forward who remains one of the world's elite attackers. Nigeria's Victor Osimhen, currently one of Europe's most prolific strikers, is expected to lead the Super Eagles if Nigeria qualifies. Senegal's Sadio ManΓ©, now playing in Saudi Arabia, remains a key figure for the Lions of Teranga, the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions from 2021.
Morocco's squad, which made history by reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, will again be built around players like Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain) and Hakim Ziyech. The Atlas Lions are considered one of Africa's strongest contenders for a deep run in 2026. Algeria, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and South Africa are among other nations competing in CAF qualification rounds.
The expanded 48-team format means African nations have more opportunity than ever to advance beyond the group stage. With qualification campaigns ongoing as of April 2026, the final list of African participants has not yet been fully confirmed. Fans across the continent are eagerly watching the remaining qualification matches to see which nine nations will represent Africa at the tournament set to kick off in June 2026.
