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Seven African players to watch at the 2026 World Cup
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
A record 10 African nations will participate in the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, held from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Morocco, a 2022 semi-finalist, leads the African challenge, while Cape Verde makes its debut and DR Congo returns for the first time since 1974. BBC Sport Africa highlighted seven players expected to make significant contributions. Antoine Semenyo, a 26-year-old forward who joined Manchester City mid-season, will lead Ghana's attack after scoring 17 Premier League goals. Yan Diomande, a 19-year-old RB Leipzig attacker, was the Bundesliga's Rookie of the Season with 12 goals and eight assists for Ivory Coast. South Africa's captain and goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, 34, brings experience and penalty-saving prowess, fresh from winning the African Champions League. Roberto "Pico" Lopes, a 33-year-old Shamrock Rovers centre-back, was instrumental in Cape Verde's historic qualification. Brahim Diaz, a 26-year-old Real Madrid playmaker, seeks redemption with Morocco after a penalty miss in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. Ismaila Sarr, a 28-year-old Crystal Palace forward, is in career-best form, having scored 21 goals this season, including nine in the UEFA Conference League for Senegal. Omar Marmoush, a 27-year-old Manchester City forward, remains a central figure for Egypt, contributing to City's League Cup and FA Cup successes. The 2026 World Cup provides a platform for African football to display its talent.
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