African Teams' World Cup Performance: A Mixed Bag

The Current State of African Teams in the World Cup

African teams have had a mixed performance at the 2026 World Cup, with some showing promise while others have struggled. Senegal's upcoming game against Norway is crucial not only for qualification but also for determining how African performance at this World Cup is viewed.

Africa's Increased Representation in the World Cup

No region benefited as much from the expansion of the World Cup as Africa. In Qatar in 2022, five of the 32 slots (16% of the field) went to the Confederation of African Football (Caf). Of the 48 slots this time around, nine went automatically to Caf, and they secured a 10th when DR Congo beat Jamaica in an interconfederational playoff in March.

The Performance of African Teams So Far

Tunisia have been dreadful, undermined by shambolic leadership, while South Africa bafflingly adopted a back five for the opening game and were well-beaten by Mexico. Algeria's defensive shortcomings were exposed by Argentina in a 3-0 loss. However, there have been positives, with Morocco and Côte d'Ivoire showing promise.

The Impact of Increased Representation

Caf's logic was always that more sides at the finals would give them more of an opportunity to demonstrate quality. To justify Caf's extra slots, it really needs a minimum of five of its sides to make it to the last 32.

The Road Ahead for African Teams

Egypt, Morocco, and Côte d'Ivoire should go through, while Ghana have a very good chance. Cape Verde and DR Congo have more of a chance than anybody thought likely, Algeria have to get a result on Monday, and Senegal may find themselves undone by a cruel draw.