The wait is over. Football’s biggest stage is set. And for the first time in history, Africa has 10 teams ready to compete.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicks off on Thursday, June 11, with Mexico facing South Africa in Mexico City’s legendary Estadio Azteca. The tournament — the largest in World Cup history — features 48 teams across 104 matches, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Africa’s Biggest Ever Showing
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Africa enters this World Cup with 10 representatives — a record, and a reflection of the continent’s growing footballing power. Algeria, Cape Verde, DR Congo, Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia will all carry the African flag.
Morocco, in particular, arrives with serious expectations after reaching the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. South Africa opens the entire tournament on Day 1 against hosts Mexico — a moment of immense significance for the continent. Furthermore, Senegal and Egypt bring experienced squads capable of making deep runs.
Nigeria Watches From the Sidelines
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Nigeria, however, is absent. The Super Eagles lost to DR Congo in the CAF inter-confederation playoff and missed qualification for the second consecutive World Cup. That fact has dampened the celebrations somewhat for Nigerian football fans.
Still, Nigeria’s presence is felt in other ways. Nigerian musicians headline the opening ceremonies. Nigerian-born players appear in the squads of England, France, Norway, and other nations. As a result, the Nigerian story at this World Cup is simply told differently.
The Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony in Mexico City featured Burna Boy and Shakira performing the official anthem ‘Dai Dai’. Toronto and Los Angeles followed on June 12 with their own ceremonies — a historic first for the competition.
The final is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Between now and then, 104 matches will tell the story of which nation truly rules the football world in 2026. The journey begins today.
