Africa’s representatives now have a clear roadmap to the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Friday’s much-anticipated draw in Washington DC, which mapped out the tournament’s first-ever 48-team edition.
The expanded format, featuring 12 groups of four, guarantees the continent nine berths, with the possibility of a tenth through the intercontinental playoffs.
The ceremony delivered intriguing tests for African sides, headlined by Morocco’s placement in Group C.
The Atlas Lions, currently Africa’s top-ranked team and semifinalists at Qatar 2022, will battle Brazil, Scotland and Haiti as they look to extend their recent global breakthrough.
South Africa, returning to the global stage for the first time since hosting in 2010, landed in Group A alongside co-hosts Mexico, South Korea and the winner of the UEFA Play-Off D.
The fixture list sets up a nostalgic rematch of the 2010 curtain-raiser in which Siphiwe Tshabalala etched his name into history.
Reigning African champions Ivory Coast were placed in Group E, where Germany, Ecuador and World Cup debutants Curaçao await.
Tunisia face a stern Group F assignment against the Netherlands, Japan and a European play-off entrant.
In Group G, Egypt clash with Belgium, Iran and New Zealand, while tournament newcomers Cape Verde brace for a marquee Group H test against Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia a monumental moment for the rising Blue Sharks.
Algeria were drawn into Group J for a blockbuster showdown with defending world champions Argentina, plus Austria and Jordan.
A standout storyline emerges in Group I, where Senegal meet France in a renewal of their historic 2002 upset, when the Lions of Teranga shocked the then champions 1–0. Norway and a South America/Asia play-off winner complete the group.
Ghana enter a demanding Group L featuring England, Croatia and Panama. The Black Stars, known for their dramatic World Cup exploits, must rediscover their signature resilience to advance.
Elsewhere, DR Congo remain in contention through the intercontinental playoff path. Should the Leopards overcome the winner between Jamaica and New Caledonia, they will slot into Group K with Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.
Full 2026 FIFA World Cup Draw
Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, European Play-Off D winner
Group B: Canada, European Play-Off A winner, Qatar, Switzerland
Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland
Group D: USA, Paraguay, Australia, European Play-Off C winner
Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador
Group F: Netherlands, Japan, European Play-Off B winner, Tunisia
Group G: Belgium, Egypt, IR Iran, New Zealand
Group H: Spain, Cabo Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay
Group I: France, Senegal, FIFA Play-Off winner 2, Norway
Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan
Group K: Portugal, FIFA Play-Off winner 1, Uzbekistan, Colombia
Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama
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