World Cup 2026: Why African Fans Are Rallying Behind Ten Teams

A record ten African nations will compete in the 2026 World Cup, doubling the continent’s presence and offering fans twice as much group-stage drama. From Morocco and Senegal to debutants Cabo Verde and DR Congo, every side has a story worth following. Nigeria’s absence for a second straight tournament is a bitter pill for Super Eagles supporters. Yet many will now cheer on other African teams and engage in odds debates as part of the football experience. Morocco leads the bookmakers’ rankings at 50/1, with Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire close behind. Underdogs like Cabo Verde and DR Congo hope to ride waves of emotion and cause upsets. Across Nigeria, football talk often centers on betting markets. Real-time odds and in-play bets have become as normal as goals and assists. This summer, fans will be glued to the screen, rooting for every African side.

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