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5ASIDE: Africa’s rising depth ahead of the 2026 World Cup: new contenders and a shifting power structure
It’s no longer about a few familiar names. A new wave is reshaping the continent and changing the global perception of African football.
Africa breaks away from its old hierarchy
For years, African football on the global stage was largely defined by traditional powers like Cameroon, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast, teams that carried the continent’s expectations in major tournaments.
That structure is no longer as clear. The landscape has evolved, and what used to be a defined hierarchy is now a far more open and competitive environment, where multiple nations have the tools to compete and disrupt expectations.
New contenders changing the narrative
One of the most compelling stories is DR Congo, who secured their place at the World Cup through the intercontinental playoff and now face a demanding group alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan. Far from being just participants, they have the potential to become one of the tournament’s most difficult opponents.
At the same time, Morocco continue their rise with a remarkable generation of players. World U-20 champions and recent protagonists in AFCON 2025, where they were awarded the title following a controversial final, they are widely considered one of the major dark horses heading into 2026.
A continent full of threats
Beyond these standout cases, the growth is collective. Tunisia, South Africa, and Algeria have all shown the ability to compete at a high level, while teams like Egypt remain dangerous due to their individual talent and experience.
Then there is Ghana, currently struggling but still impossible to ignore given their history and player quality. In today’s African football landscape, even teams in transition remain part of the conversation.
A depth that changes the global conversation
What was once a theoretical debate is now becoming a clear reality. Africa is no longer defined by a handful of elite teams, but by a broad and competitive field where the overall level continues to rise.
Heading into the 2026 World Cup, the continent will not rely on a single contender. Instead, it will present a group of teams capable of competing across the board. And in that context, the real challenge for the rest of the world won’t be facing one African team… but facing them all.
