Former Senegal forward, El Hadji Diouf believes an African country can win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Nigerian football legend Jay-Jay Okocha has expressed reservations about the continent’s chances.

Diouf said African teams now possess the quality and confidence needed to challenge the world’s best, pointing to the strength of Senegal’s current squad ahead of the tournament to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The former Liverpool striker highlighted players such as Sadio Mané, Idrissa Gueye and Édouard Mendy as evidence that African teams can compete with football powers from Europe and South America.

CAF president Patrice Motsepe also expressed confidence that one of Africa’s 10 representatives could emerge world champions in 2026.

According to him, Morocco’s run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar proved African teams can compete at the highest level.

Motsepe said African football previously lacked belief but noted that Morocco’s historic performance changed perceptions across the continent.

Okocha, who represented Nigeria at multiple World Cups including the 1994 edition in the United States, admitted he would love to see an African team win the tournament but warned that competition is becoming tougher globally.

The former Super Eagles midfielder said countries from North America and Asia have improved significantly and should not be overlooked when discussing possible contenders for the title.

Morocco and Senegal are widely regarded as Africa’s strongest teams heading into the expanded 48-nation tournament.

Morocco, captained by Achraf Hakimi, have been drawn alongside Brazil, Scotland and Haiti in Group C, while Senegal face France, Norway and Iraq in Group I.

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw recalled his country’s famous victory over France at the 2002 World Cup and expressed hope for another upset when both sides meet again in 2026.

Meanwhile, Egypt coach Hossam Hassan said his players are eager to surpass the country’s previous World Cup performances, while Tunisia coach Sabri Lamouchi cautioned against comparing his side to Morocco’s 2022 achievement.

Africa’s representatives at the 2026 World Cup are Algeria, Cape Verde, DR Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa and Tunisia.