22 June 2026
Africa Rising: How the Continent Is Faring at World Cup 2026
A sweeping look at how Africa's expanded squad of nations is performing on the biggest stage, from Morocco's ambitions to Senegal's cruel draw fate.
Africa arrived at the 2026 World Cup with a point to prove, and according to The Guardian, the early signs are genuinely encouraging. With more representatives than ever before, the continent's teams have been competing hard, and in some cases surprising everyone.
The Guardian's Jonathan Wilson breaks down each nation's situation. Egypt, Morocco and Côte d'Ivoire look well placed to advance, while Ghana have a strong chance too. Cape Verde and DR Congo have exceeded almost every expectation, and Algeria still had a lifeline heading into Monday's action.
Senegal, despite their quality, may find themselves undone by the draw rather than their performances on the pitch. Tunisia, meanwhile, appear to be the one side already running out of road.
The big challenge for African teams now, Wilson notes, is to turn promising leads against bigger nations into actual wins. The representation is there. The results are nearly there. The next step is closing that gap for good.
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