A record 10 African countries will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with seven standout players ready to make their mark. Morocco made history in 2022 by becoming the first African semi-finalists, while Cape Verde makes its tournament debut. Ghana's Antoine Semenyo carries hopes after his career-best season, with seven Premier League goals since joining Manchester City.

Ivory Coast's Yan Diomande dominated the Bundesliga with 12 goals and 8 assists, earning Rookie of the Season honors. South Africa's captain Ronwen Williams brings penalty-saving heroics after stopping four spot kicks in Afcon 2023. Brahim Diaz seeks redemption after missing a crucial penalty in Afcon 2025 final, while Ismaila Sarr comes off a career-high 21 goals for Crystal Palace.

Cape Verde's Roberto 'Pico' Lopes was central to their first qualification, despite initially ignoring the LinkedIn message offering him a place. Egypt's Omar Marmoush joined Manchester City for $79.5m but will need to deliver after Salah's injury. Senegal, the reigning African champions, face France and Norway in Group I, hoping to repeat their 2002 upset of the then-holders