By moMomodu Favour

Africa will make history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a record 10 teams set to represent the continent following the qualification of the Democratic Republic of the Congo national football team.

The expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams has significantly increased Africa’s representation, boosting its slots from five to nine automatic places, with an additional intercontinental playoff route now secured effectively giving the continent 10 participants.

DR Congo’s qualification sealed the final slot, marking a major milestone for African football and underlining the continent’s growing influence on the global stage.

Among the qualified teams are continental heavyweights are, Senegal national football team, and Morocco national football team, alongside traditional powerhouses including the Egypt national football team, Ghana national football team, and the Cameroon national football team.

Also securing qualification are North African giants, the Algeria national football team, as well as the Ivory Coast national football team and South Africa national football team, completing a diverse lineup that reflects the continent’s football strength. The Democratic Republic of the Congo national football team round off the list as the final qualifiers.

The increase in slots is part of reforms by FIFA aimed at making the World Cup more inclusive and globally representative. For Africa, it offers a greater opportunity to showcase its depth of talent and competitiveness.

Morocco’s impressive run to the semi-finals of the 2022 tournament in Qatar had already signaled Africa’s rising status in world football, and expectations are now even higher with more teams participating.

The 2026 tournament, to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be the largest World Cup ever staged.

With 10 teams heading to the global showpiece, Africa will be aiming not just for participation, but for a historic breakthrough potentially producing its first-ever World Cup winner.