Former Super Eagles and OGC Nice defender Onyekachi Apam has identified Morocco, Senegal and Ivory Coast as Africa’s leading contenders ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, expressing optimism that the continent can finally challenge for the sport’s biggest trophy.
Apam’s African World Cup shortlist
With the tournament approaching, Apam believes the strongest momentum in Africa is coming from three specific nations.
- Morocco, whom he views as the top team on the continent right now
- Senegal, listed among Africa’s most dangerous competitors
- Ivory Coast, also named as a contender with the potential to make an impact
Why the 2026 World Cup changes the outlook
The former defender’s confidence is also tied to the format of the upcoming finals. The 2026 tournament is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, and it will be the first World Cup expanded to 48 teams.
That growth has increased Africa’s representation from five to ten nations, a shift Apam says has raised expectations across the continent that an African side could emerge as a genuine title contender.
Morocco the centre of Apam’s belief
Apam’s primary pick is Morocco, pointing to their recent progress on the biggest stage. Morocco became the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final at Qatar 2022, a benchmark Apam believes other teams can build on.
Asked about Africa’s chances of delivering a breakthrough at the tournament, Apam said: “For me, Morocco are the best African team at the moment. It’s possible.”
