African teams will cause a surprise at 2026 World Cup – Argentine coach Rodolfo Zapata

Argentine coach Rodolfo Zapata believes African teams could shake up the 2026 World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

The continent will have a strong presence in North America, with South Africa, Algeria, Cape Verde, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia already qualified.

DR Congo could join them as the tenth African representative if they prevail in the six-team intercontinental playoff scheduled for March 2026.

No African nation has ever lifted the FIFA World Cup, though Morocco made history in 2022 by becoming the first African team to reach the semi-finals. Yet Zapata is confident several African sides are capable of springing surprises next year.

“I have no doubts that there will be African surprises at the next World Cup – South Africa, Senegal, Ghana, and Egypt could be some of them,” he told KickOff.com.

He singled out Morocco as a standout: “Morocco is a sure bet, as their recent performance at the U20 World Cup demonstrated that they have an extraordinary present and future.

Zapata emphasized the growing influence of African players in Europe’s top leagues.

“For several years now, it hasn’t been surprising to see African players on European teams. They are highly sought-after gems in the top leagues.

“But success at the national team level also depends on good organization, long-term programs, and a strong sense of pride in representing their countries,” he added.

Drawing on Argentina’s own footballing culture, Zapata added: “In Argentina, we have always valued that sense of pride. Maradona and Messi are the greatest examples, two legends who consistently placed representing their country above personal or financial interests,” he added.