The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be a spectacle, with a record 10 African nations participating in the expanded 48-team tournament. This marks a significant moment in football history, and as we gear up for the event, here's a look at seven African players who could make waves in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19.
Antoine Semenyo: Ghana's Premier League Hope
Semenyo, the London-born forward, is a key player for Ghana. After a stellar season with Manchester City, where he provided the winner in the FA Cup final, Semenyo is now carrying his nation's hopes. With Tottenham's Mohammed Kudus out injured, Semenyo will be looking to score his first goal in a major tournament as Ghana faces England, Croatia, and Panama in Group L. His performance will be crucial for Ghana's chances, and I predict he could be the surprise package of the tournament.
Yan Diomande: Ivory Coast's Young Talent
The Elephants of Ivory Coast return to the World Cup for the first time since 2014, and at the heart of their team is Yan Diomande. The 19-year-old, who scooped the Rookie of the Season award in the German Bundesliga, is a force to be reckoned with. With his dribbling and duel-winning abilities, Diomande is a dangerous attacking threat. Group E opponents Germany will be well aware of his abilities, and I believe he could be the key to Ivory Coast's success in the tournament.
Ronwen Williams: South Africa's Captain
South Africa are back at the finals for the first time since hosting in 2010, and their captain, Ronwen Williams, is a veteran of big games. After stopping four penalties in a shootout against Cape Verde in the Afcon 2023 quarter-finals, Williams has become a penalty-saving hero. With a strong core of players from Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa will be looking to progress past the group stage for the first time. Williams' experience and leadership will be vital, and I think he could be the unsung hero of the tournament.
Roberto 'Pico' Lopes: Cape Verde's Leader
Cape Verde, a tiny island nation, has made waves in recent years, and Roberto 'Pico' Lopes is a key component of their success. The centre-back, who was first approached to play for the Blues Sharks via LinkedIn, has become a leader on and off the pitch. With his experience and leadership, Lopes could be the difference for Cape Verde in Group H, where they face Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia. I believe he could be the dark horse of the tournament.
Brahim Diaz: Morocco's Playmaker
Brahim Diaz, the Real Madrid playmaker, was the star for Morocco at Afcon 2025, scoring five goals as the hosts reached the final. However, he has some making up to do after his penalty miss against Senegal. Diaz, a former Spain Under-21 international, will be looking to atone for his mistake and lead Morocco to success. Group C opponents Brazil and Scotland will be aware of his abilities, and I think he could be the key to Morocco's success in the tournament.
Ismaila Sarr: Senegal's Goal Machine
Ismaila Sarr, the 28-year-old forward, is in fine form with 21 strikes for Crystal Palace this season. With nine of those coming in the UEFA Conference League, Sarr is gearing up for his third successive World Cup. Senegal, the reigning African champions, face France, Norway, and Iraq in Group I, and I believe Sarr could be the key to their success. His club form could translate onto the international stage, and I think he could be the surprise package of the tournament.
Omar Marmoush: Egypt's $79.5m Forward
Omar Marmoush, the $79.5m forward who joined Manchester City from Eintracht Frankfurt, is among the first names on Egypt's teamsheet. With his performances at Afcon 2025, Marmoush will be aiming to build on those performances at his first World Cup. Egypt, the first African nation to take part in the World Cup, are still waiting to win a game at the tournament. With captain Mohamed Salah back from injury, Marmoush will be expected to deliver, and I think he could be the key to Egypt's success in the tournament.
In conclusion, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be a spectacle, and these seven African players could make waves in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. From young talents to experienced leaders, each player has the potential to make a significant impact on the tournament. As we gear up for the event, I believe these players could be the surprise packages of the tournament, and their performances could shape the future of African football.
