As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies, Nigerian football journalists face a bitter reality: the Super Eagles will not be part of the global spectacle next year.

The team’s hopes were dashed last month when they fell to the Democratic Republic of Congo in a penalty shootout during the World Cup playoff final held at Stade Prince Heritier Moulay Hassan in Rabat, Morocco.

With DR Congo now advancing to the intercontinental playoffs against either New Caledonia or Jamaica, Africa’s representation in next year’s tournament will include Senegal, Ivory Coast, Egypt, Cape Verde, Ghana, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and South Africa. The absence of Nigeria—a perennial powerhouse—reshapes the dynamics for the continent and adds pressure on other African nations to shine on the world stage.

South Africa
The Bafana Bafana, absent from the World Cup for 15 years, return to the global arena after securing automatic qualification. Drawn in Group A with Mexico and South Korea, expectations are tempered, with any advancement beyond the group stage considered a significant achievement.

Ivory Coast
The reigning African champions are poised to leverage their recent continental success. Placed in Group E alongside Germany, Ecuador, and Curacao, the Elephants could emerge as surprise contenders if they maintain cohesion and discipline.

Egypt
Despite current turbulence surrounding star player Mohamed Salah at Liverpool, the Pharaohs remain a team to watch. Grouped with Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand, Egypt possesses the potential to make waves, provided their key players regain form and focus.

Senegal
The Teranga Lions, led by Sadio Mane, enter the tournament with balanced experience and youthful energy. Drawn in Group I with France and Norway, Senegal is expected to navigate the group stage successfully and may challenge for a deeper run.

Cape Verde
Making their World Cup debut, Cape Verde face an uphill task in Group H against Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. While considered underdogs, the team’s spirited qualifying campaign provides hope for potential upsets.

Ghana
Once Africa’s standard-bearers, the Black Stars have underperformed in recent tournaments. In Group L with England, Croatia, and Panama, Ghana has the chance to restore its reputation and revive its quarterfinal legacy from 2010.

Morocco
Following their historic 2022 semi-final run and Under-20 World Cup triumph, Morocco enters Group C with confidence. Facing Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti, the Atlas Lions are widely seen as Africa’s strongest hope to progress beyond the group stage.

Tunisia and Algeria
Tunisia (Group F with Japan and the Netherlands) and Algeria (Group J with Argentina, Austria, and Jordan) each boast talented squads capable of delivering surprises. Key players like Riyad Mahrez and Mohamed Amoura could provide the edge needed to advance.

Speaking to Patriotic Insights News Audu Ojo, head coach of FC Dawaki Rangers, singled out Morocco as Africa’s standout contender.

“Sadly, Nigeria will not be at the World Cup again, just as in 2022,” Ojo said. “From my perspective, Morocco is the only African team with the quality and depth to cross the group stage. They have proven themselves on the global stage and continue to develop young talent.”

As the World Cup unfolds across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, African nations will carry the continent’s hopes in the absence of the Super Eagles. For journalists covering African football, the tournament presents both a challenge and an opportunity to highlight the continent’s growing influence on the global stage.