HISTORIC: 10 African countries to play at 2026 World Cup

The Leopards of Democratic Republic of Congo have ended a 52-year wait to secure a place at the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, becoming Africa’s tenth representative at the tournament set to be staged across the United States, Mexico and Canada between June and July.

DR Congo edged Jamaica 1-0 in the intercontinental playoff final at Akron Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico. After a goalless 90 minutes, the contest drifted into extra time, where defender Axel Tuanzebe rose to the occasion, converting from a corner in the 100th minute to seal a historic victory.

The triumph crowns an impressive playoff run for the Leopards, who overcame Cameroon and Nigeria before dispatching Jamaica. It marks their first appearance on football’s biggest stage since 1974, when the nation competed as Zaire.

Their qualification completes Africa’s lineup for the 2026 finals, following a grueling campaign that spanned two years, 10 match rounds and more than 250 fixtures to determine the continent’s nine automatic qualifiers.

As ever, the African qualifiers delivered compelling narratives. Cape Verde secured a maiden World Cup berth, while traditional heavyweights such as Nigeria and Cameroon fell short despite being tipped to progress.

Africa’s automatic qualifiers

Morocco

Africa’s highest-ranked side wasted little time asserting dominance, winning all eight matches and conceding just twice. The Atlas Lions, semi-finalists at the 2022 tournament, reinforced their credentials as continental standard-bearers and will aim to build on that historic run.

Tunisia

Tunisia delivered a flawless defensive campaign, becoming the first African side to qualify without conceding a goal. With nine wins and a draw, they head into a third consecutive World Cup appearance hoping to finally break past the group stage.

Egypt

Inspired by captain Mohamed Salah, Egypt cruised through qualifying with eight wins and two draws. The Pharaohs combined attacking efficiency with defensive solidity, underlining their status as group favourites.

Algeria

Powered by striker Mohamed Amoura, Algeria were among the most consistent performers, winning eight of their ten matches. The 2019 AFCON champions return to the global stage for the first time since 2014.

Ghana

After an inconsistent start, Ghana surged to qualification with a strong run of results. Forward Jordan Ayew played a decisive role, as the Black Stars look to improve on recent group-stage exits and recapture past World Cup momentum.

Cape Verde

One of the standout stories of the campaign, Cape Verde defied early setbacks to top their group and qualify for the first time. A string of commanding performances reignited belief and secured a landmark achievement for the island nation.

Senegal

Unbeaten throughout the qualifiers, Senegal finished strongly with a perfect run in their final matches. The Teranga Lions, quarter-finalists in 2002, will be aiming to match or surpass that milestone in their fourth appearance.

South Africa

South Africa returned to the World Cup for the first time since hosting the tournament in 2010. A decisive win in their final match, combined with favourable results elsewhere, secured their passage from a tightly contested group.

Côte d’Ivoire

The reigning AFCON champions edged a competitive group to qualify, finishing just ahead of Gabon. Consistent results, including emphatic victories late in the campaign, ensured their return to the global stage.

With DR Congo completing the line-up, Africa heads into the 2026 World Cup with a diverse and ambitious group of representatives, blending seasoned contenders with emerging forces eager to make history.