Record Ten African Nations Set for 2026 World Cup Debut
DR Congo’s dramatic 1-0 win over Jamaica sealed the continent’s historic tenth slot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, their first finals appearance since 1974. With FIFA expanding the tournament to 48 teams, Africa’s allocation rose from five to nine automatic places. Nine nations topped their CAF qualifying groups over a two-year campaign, while DR Congo claimed the final berth in the intercontinental playoff. Morocco leads the charge after its 2022 semi-final run, and Mohamed Salah will bid farewell in Egypt’s final tournament of his career. Debutants Cabo Verde join established sides Ghana, Senegal, Algeria, Ivory Coast, Tunisia and South Africa in the full lineup. The 2026 World Cup kicks off on 11 June and runs through 19 July across the United States, Mexico and Canada. African fans will be watching as these ten teams aim to rewrite history.
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