CAF backs African nations at 2026 FIFA World Cup to make the continent proud

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has thrown its full support behind the African countries set to compete at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, expressing strong confidence that the continent will deliver a performance worthy of global recognition.

With the tournament set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Africa is already guaranteed significant representation. Nine nations have secured qualification for the mundial, underlining the growing competitiveness and strength of African football on the world stage.

The qualified teams, representing the Confederation of African Football (CAF), are Morocco, Senegal, Algeria, Egypt, Tunisia, Cape Verde, Ghana, South Africa, and Ivory Coast.

There is also the possibility of further representation, with Democratic Republic of the Congo still in contention through the inter-confederation playoffs. Should they succeed, Africa’s presence at the tournament could rise to ten teams, marking a historic milestone for the continent.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe remains optimistic about what lies ahead, voicing belief in the ability of African sides to rise to the occasion and make a lasting impression.

“We are confident that the African Nations that are participating in the FIFA World 2026 will make us proud,” he said in remarks published by CAFOnline.

Beyond preparations for the World Cup, CAF continues to balance multiple priorities across the continent’s football calendar. Dr. Motsepe indicated that while attention is firmly on major club competitions, the organisation is also cooperating with ongoing legal processes concerning the aftermath of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 Final.

That matter is currently before the Court of Arbitration for Sport following a case filed by Senegal. Despite this, CAF remains focused on advancing its competitions, including the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup, while simultaneously strengthening support for national teams heading into the World Cup.

“The matters relating to the incidences that took place at the final match of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 are before CAS and the primary focus of CAF currently, is on the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup, the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League and the other CAF Competitions, CAF is also focused on working together, cooperating and supporting each of the African Nations that will be participating in the FIFA World Cup 2026 in America,” Dr. Motsepe said.