CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe has declared that an African nation will soon lift the FIFA World Cup, following a record-breaking campaign by the continent’s representatives at the 2026 tournament.
In a statement released Wednesday, Motsepe celebrated the historic achievement of nine African teams advancing from the group stage to the Round of 32—the highest qualification rate in World Cup history.
With 10 nations initially fielded, the 90 per cent success rate far outpaced Africa’s 20.8 per cent share of total tournament participants, delivering 28.1 per cent of all knockout-stage qualifiers.
Morocco drew special praise for reaching the quarter-finals for a second consecutive World Cup, while Egypt’s progression to the Round of 16 was also highlighted.
Motsepe commended all representatives—Algeria, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Ghana, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia—for their contributions to the continent’s strongest collective showing to date.
“We have identified specific areas where there is room for improvement,” Motsepe said, expressing confidence that coaches, technical teams, and players will implement necessary adjustments. “This will ensure even greater successes for African National Teams in future FIFA World Cups.”
To capitalise on the momentum, CAF will host a conference bringing together national team coaches, technical staff, former players, and football experts to evaluate the 2026 campaign and develop recommendations for 2030.
Motsepe also reaffirmed CAF’s commitment to investing in youth football, coaching education, domestic leagues, and infrastructure across all 54 member nations.
“Every National Team and Football Club must play its matches in their country and in front of their local supporters,” he stressed, calling for stadiums that meet CAF and FIFA standards in every member association.
“CAF is making enormous progress in developing and growing men and women football in Africa and making it amongst the best in the world,” Motsepe said. “We remain confident that an African nation will be Champions of the FIFA World Cup.”
We’ve got the edge. Get real-time reports, breaking scoops, and exclusive angles delivered straight to your phone. Don’t settle for stale news. Join LEADERSHIP NEWS on WhatsApp for 24/7 updates →
