Senegal and Ghana considered top contenders for World Cup success

Morocco’s Success Sparks Hope for Sub-Saharan Teams at 2026 World Cup

In 2022, Morocco became the first African team to reach the World Cup semifinals, marking a significant milestone in the continent’s football history. The Atlas Lions’ achievement was all the more notable given that they were only the fourth African nation to make it to the quarterfinals. While North Africa has historically dominated African success at both the World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations, sub-Saharan teams are looking to challenge their northern counterparts in 2026.

Egypt, a seven-time winner of the Africa Cup of Nations, is one of the top contenders from the continent. Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria also boast impressive records in qualifying for World Cup finals. Senegal, meanwhile, is seeking redemption after being stripped of the Africa Cup of Nations title by the Confederation of African Football.

Senegal’s squad, led by coach Pape Bouna Thiaw, boasts a strong depth and star power, with players such as Sadio Mane, Pape Gueye, Edouard Mendy, and Kalidou Koulibaly. The team will face France in their first Group I encounter on June 16.

Ghana, which has only missed one World Cup since its debut in 2006, is also looking to make a strong impression. Despite a tumultuous run-up to the tournament, led by new coach Carlos Queiroz, Ghana’s squad appears well-equipped to challenge the group stage.

The 2026 World Cup kicks off on June 11, and fans from across Africa are eagerly anticipating their teams’ performances. With Morocco’s success in 2022 still fresh in the minds of football enthusiasts, it remains to be seen whether sub-Saharan teams can replicate that level of achievement.

Source: Al Jazeera