2026 U17 World Cup: 10 African players to watch in Qatar

The 2026 U17 World Cup will take place in Qatar from 19 November to 13 December, with 10 African nations competing for the title.

Algeria, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, Mali, Morocco, Mozambique, Senegal, Tanzania and Uganda will all be represented. The tournament will provide an opportunity for established continental performers and young players developing in European academies to make an impression on the world stage.

Algeria – Yacine Abed

Algeria are returning to the U17 World Cup after several years away. Forward Yacine Abed, who plays for Paradou AC, is included in the official squad of 21 Fennecs players and will be one of the attacking options in the team’s return to global competition.

Cameroon – Douka Nkoto

Cameroon’s squad includes 16-year-old midfielder Douka Nkoto, who is part of the Manchester United environment. Named in the official list of the Lions indomptables, he will now have the chance to show how he can perform in an international tournament.

Cote d’Ivoire – Hubert Yao

At 1.92m, San Pedro FC forward Hubert Yao has an outstanding physical profile for his age group. He is among the 21 Elephanteaux players selected for Qatar, with his size likely to offer an advantage in aerial contests and physical duels. The tournament will test his ability to influence matches against international defences.

Egypt – Adham Hasseib

Zamalek SC forward Adham Hasseib is included in Egypt’s final squad. His selection gives him an important opportunity to establish himself in an attacking role as the Pharaons seek to compete with the leading nations at the tournament.

Mali – Ismael Kamissoko

Mali have a strong reputation for developing young footballers. Midfielder Ismael Kamissoko, from Academie Etoiles du Monde, is part of the Aiglonnets squad. At 16, he will be able to measure himself against the best players of his generation.

Morocco – Ziyad Baha

Ziyad Baha already has experience of the U17 World Cup, having appeared at the previous edition. The Olympique de Marseille forward will represent the Lionceaux de l’Atlas again, and that international experience could prove valuable for a Morocco side with significant ambitions.

Mozambique – Diego Elias Pelembe

Mozambique will make their U17 World Cup debut, with captain Diego Elias Pelembe among their players to watch. The Associacao Black Bulls midfielder scored two goals at the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations and played an important part in his team’s campaign. His inclusion in the final squad confirms his importance to a historic generation.

Senegal – Assane Sarr

Goalkeeper Assane Sarr of Ndiangane FC is included in Senegal’s 21-man squad. His performances could be crucial as the Senegalese aim to reinforce their status among Africa’s leading teams at this level.

Tanzania – Dismas Athanasi

At 14, Dismas Athanasi is one of the youngest players in the competition. The Tanzania forward finished as the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations’ leading scorer with three goals and now has the opportunity to demonstrate his potential on the world stage.

Uganda – Owen Mukisa

Uganda secured qualification after a closely contested continental campaign. Vipers SC forward Owen Mukisa, 15, is one of the Cranes’ players to follow. Standing 1.88m, he offers an imposing physical presence in Uganda’s attack.

For all 10 players, Qatar will be a significant test: a chance either to confirm the promise shown at the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations or to announce themselves internationally. Their performances will be closely watched by observers, scouts and supporters.