Akpeyi Backs Morocco, Senegal To Impress At 2026 World Cup

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has expressed confidence that Morocco and Senegal will showcase Africa’s talent at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Both Morocco and Senegal currently rank as Africa’s highest‑placed national teams and feature a roster of top‑class players who compete at the highest levels of club football.

Akpeyi Roots for Morocco and Senegal

Akpeyi says the two sides possess the quality, experience, and talent required to make a significant impact on football’s biggest stage.

“I see Morocco and Senegal doing very well. They have the quality and experience, as shown in recent years,” Akpeyi told SportsBoom.co.za.

“It will be difficult for African countries to make the top four again or surpass what Morocco achieved in Qatar, but in football there is always a chance.”

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“Bafana Bafana could also be a surprise package, while DR Congo qualifying against the odds makes their participation especially exciting. We could see a competition among the African countries over who stays the longest at the tournament. We have every reason as Africans to be excited ahead of the World Cup.”

On Africa’s Large Representation

A record 10 African nations will compete at the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the continent’s largest‑ever representation at the global tournament.

Akpeyi believes the increased number of African teams will boost the continent’s chances of producing more contenders capable of reaching the knockout stages and making a lasting impact at the competition.

“It is a wonderful opportunity for the continent. With more teams, Africa has a real chance to reach the knockout stages and even the quarter‑finals,” Akpeyi added.

“Our players are playing week in and week out in Europe for some of the world’s biggest teams. We also have a sizeable number of players who have already competed at the World Cup, and now it’s up to us to seize this chance.”

“I have been talking to some of my friends in other parts of the continent and there is an air of optimism, not only because of the increased numbers but also because of the opportunity that awaits in North America.”

By Adeboye Amosu