Can sub-Saharan Africa outdo noisy neighbours from north at World Cup?
After Morocco became the first Africans to reach a World Cup semifinal in 2022, can a sub-Saharan side step up in 2026?

After Morocco became the first Africans to reach a World Cup semifinal in 2022, can a sub-Saharan side step up in 2026?







![Former Senegal Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko (C) acknowledges his supporters as he becomes the new speaker of Senegal's National Assembly on May 26, 2026, at the National Assembly in Dakar [AFP]](/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/afp_6a15839ec3c5-1779794846_4607d8-1779803547.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)

Fans arrested in Morocco in the aftermath of AFCON 2025 final were returned on humanitarian pardon by the Moroccan king.
Morocco jailed 18 Senegal fans following fan disturbances at the Africa Cup of Nations final in January.
The renewed instability could complicate bailout negotiations with the International Monetary Fund.

Supporters of Senegal’s ousted prime minister have rallied outside his home in Dakar.
Human rights groups have criticised the government’s legislation targeting same-sex relationships.
Iliman Ndiaye, Nicolas Jackson and Ismaila Sarr are other key players joining Mane in Senegal’s World Cup forward line.
Amid the looming fertiliser crisis, African states should invest in sustainable agriculture to increase yields and food
France is facing deepening resentment in former African colonies where it once had political influence.
The confederation’s silence on US travel bans and visa restrictions for African fans is shameful.
Jailed Senegal fans await judge’s reply to their denial of wrongdoing at the Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco.