Augustine Eguavoen exclusively reveals expectations for African sides at World Cup

Former Nigeria international and coach Augustine Eguavoen claims African teams have a genuine chance of competing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup title.

Ten nations are representing the continent at the tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, as Africa continues its quest for a first-ever global crown since the competition began in 1930.

Africa's representatives have made an encouraging start to the tournament, producing a series of eye-catching results against some of the world's top sides. Morocco frustrated pre-tournament favourites Brazil with a goalless draw, while Ivory Coast claimed an impressive victory over Ecuador.

Elsewhere, debutants Cape Verde held former champions Spain to a 0-0 stalemate as D.R. Congo also showcased the continent's growing strength by earning a 1-1 draw against Cristiano Ronaldo-inspired Portugal.

Those performances have reinforced the football icon’s belief that the gap between African nations and the traditional football powerhouses has narrowed significantly.  

"What we saw like three or four editions back at the World Cup, you could clearly say that Brazil would win it, Argentina would win, Spain or Germany, but it's not so anymore," Eguavoen told Flashscore.com.

"We're closing the gap, so I believe Africa has a real chance. The good thing is that FIFA has made this tournament very open. If you play well, you win games.

"When I talk about our players, I mean African players in general. The majority are now playing in Europe's top leagues alongside some of the world's best footballers at the biggest clubs. They only come together with their national teams to compete, so they already know each other's qualities and what to expect.

"I wouldn't be surprised if one of the traditional football powerhouses doesn't win the tournament. They might, or they might not, because I believe every top team now has an equal chance. 

“Of course, you can't say countries like Curacao or some of the smaller nations are among the favourites, but simply competing on the world stage is already a great achievement." 

Africa's World Cup Prospects Too Close to Call

With reigning African champions Senegal and Morocco widely viewed as the continent's strongest contenders, Eguavoen was asked which side he believes is best equipped to make the deepest run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

However, the former Gent star refused to single out any one nation, arguing that Africa's diverse playing styles and the varying difficulty of each team's group-stage opponents make it impossible to predict which side will emerge as the continent's standout performer.

“It's tough, it's tough because it's different groups and different opponents,” he continued.

"West African teams have their own style of play, while South Africa and Egypt have different approaches. 

“I know Hugo Broos very well from his time coaching Club Brugge in Belgium, and I rate him highly. He's done a good job with South Africa, who also have some very talented players.

"With every team having its own style and facing different challenges, it's hard to predict which one will stand out.”

Eguavoen Backs Early Start to Nigeria’s 2030 World Cup Preparations

Nigeria failed to qualify for the ongoing tournament after losing the ticket to DR Congo, with the Super Eagles last appearing at the World Cup in Russia 2018. 

Reacting to the setback, Eguavoen lamented the three-time African champions’ absence but urged that preparations for the 2030 World Cup must begin immediately.

“No one is happy that we are not at the World Cup, but it is what it is," Eguavoen added.

“I am not saying we should take a cue from other countries but It is also sad that former world champions Italy have missed out three times in a row, that is unfortunate as well.

“I think the best we can do is put this World Cup miss behind us and start preparing for the next one now, because the earlier we do that, the better for us.”