CAF President Patrice Motsepe praises Africa's performance at the 2026 World Cup

This achievement marks Africa as the most successful continent after the first round, with a 90% qualification rate, surpassing South America 83.33% and Europe 81.25%. Motsepe attributed this success to "hard work and investments in youth football, coaching, professional leagues, and infrastructure." The nine African teams that advanced are Algeria, Cape Verde, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal, and South Africa.

Tunisia was the only African team that did not progress past the group stage. Motsepe expressed confidence that the qualified teams will continue to bring pride to their countries and the African continent.