Africa’s historic contingent for the FIFA World Cup 2026 has entered the decisive phase of preparations, with nine qualified nations testing themselves against heavyweight opposition across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas.
For the first time, nine African teams, Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, Côte d’Ivoire, South Africa, Ghana and Cape Verde, have secured direct qualification, while DR Congo remain in contention for a tenth slot via the intercontinental play-offs.
Morocco continue their South American focus with clashes against Ecuador and Paraguay in Marrakech. Senegal face Peru in France before a regional derby against The Gambia.
Ghana’s demanding schedule pits them against Austria and Germany, while Egypt travel to Saudi Arabia before a marquee fixture against Spain.
Algeria meet Guatemala and Uruguay in Europe, Côte d’Ivoire test themselves against Korea Republic and Scotland, and Tunisia head to North America for matches against Haiti and co-hosts Canada.
South Africa host Panama twice in Durban and Cape Town, while debutants Cape Verde embark on a unique journey to New Zealand to face Chile and Finland.
Even nations that missed out on qualification are seizing the international window.
Nigeria face Iran and Jordan, Zambia take on Argentina in Buenos Aires, Cameroon travel to Australia, and Mauritania meet world champions Argentina. These fixtures provide vital exposure and a platform to rebuild ahead of future competitions.
With just months to go before the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, these friendlies are laboratories for tactical refinement, squad cohesion and fitness checks.
