As anticipation builds ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, former Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has identified Morocco and Senegal as the African teams most likely to make a significant impact at football’s biggest tournament.
Akpeyi, who enjoyed a distinguished career with the Nigerian national team and several top clubs in Africa, believes both nations possess the quality, experience and tactical discipline required to compete against the world’s strongest football countries. His assessment comes as Africa prepares for its largest ever representation at the FIFA World Cup following the expansion of the tournament to 48 teams.
The 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by United States, Canada and Mexico, presents a historic opportunity for African football to strengthen its position on the global stage. With more qualification slots available to African nations than ever before, expectations are rising that the continent could produce another memorable campaign.
Speaking on the prospects of African teams, Akpeyi expressed confidence that Morocco and Senegal have developed into mature footballing nations capable of challenging traditional powerhouses from Europe and South America. According to him, both countries have built strong football structures, assembled talented squads and gained valuable experience from recent international competitions.
Morocco enters the tournament carrying the hopes of an entire continent after its historic performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Atlas Lions captured global attention when they became the first African and Arab nation to reach the semi-finals of the competition.
That remarkable achievement transformed perceptions of African football and demonstrated that teams from the continent could successfully compete against elite football nations. During their unforgettable run, Morocco defeated several highly rated opponents and displayed exceptional defensive organization, tactical awareness and resilience.
The North Africans have continued to build on that success. Their squad remains packed with talent competing in some of Europe’s most competitive leagues. Players such as Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Diaz and Youssef En-Nesyri have established themselves among the most respected footballers in international football.
Football analysts believe Morocco’s blend of technical quality, tactical discipline and international experience makes them one of Africa’s strongest contenders heading into the tournament. The team’s ability to compete against elite opposition has made them a respected force within global football circles.
While Morocco continues to attract attention following its historic achievements, Senegal remains another formidable representative of African football.
The Lions of Teranga have consistently demonstrated their strength over the past decade, winning major continental honors and maintaining a strong presence in international competitions. Their squad boasts world class talent across every department, giving them the balance necessary to compete at the highest level.
Senegal’s golden generation has helped establish the country as one of Africa’s most consistent football powers. Led by experienced stars such as Sadio Mané, Kalidou Koulibaly and Édouard Mendy, the team possesses leadership, quality and tournament experience that could prove decisive during crucial moments.
Akpeyi noted that Senegal’s physical strength, tactical organization and winning mentality have made them one of the most respected teams in Africa. He believes those qualities could enable them to advance deep into the competition and potentially challenge for a place among the tournament’s elite nations.
Beyond Morocco and Senegal, the former Nigerian goalkeeper acknowledged the growing competitiveness of African football as a whole. Nations such as Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast and South Africa have also invested heavily in football development and possess players capable of making an impact on the global stage.
The expansion of the World Cup has created new opportunities for African countries to showcase their talent and gain valuable international exposure. Many football experts believe the increased representation will contribute to the long term development of the game across the continent.
Historically, African teams have produced several memorable World Cup performances. Cameroon’s quarter-final run in 1990 inspired a generation of footballers, while Senegal’s stunning debut campaign in 2002 captured the imagination of football fans worldwide. Ghana came within touching distance of a semi-final appearance in 2010 before suffering a heartbreaking exit, while Morocco rewrote history in 2022.
These achievements have strengthened the belief that an African nation can eventually challenge for football’s most prestigious trophy.
For Nigeria, the conversation also serves as motivation. The Super Eagles remain one of Africa’s most successful football nations and continue efforts to rebuild and return to the summit of continental and global football. Many supporters hope future generations will emulate the achievements of Morocco and Senegal while restoring Nigeria’s status among the world’s elite football nations.
As preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, optimism continues to grow across Africa. The continent possesses more talent, experience and global recognition than ever before.
For Daniel Akpeyi, however, the strongest candidates to carry Africa’s hopes remain Morocco and Senegal. With proven track records, world class players and ambitious football programs, both nations appear well positioned to write another historic chapter in African football and potentially challenge the traditional order on the world stage.
