The race to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up, and across Africa, the dream of stepping onto football’s biggest stage has never felt closer. 

While familiar names like Morocco, Tunisia, and Nigeria dominate the conversation, a handful of nations are quietly chasing history. 

For these countries, just qualifying would be a story worth celebrating, as it would mark their first-ever appearance at the World Cup. Here’s a look at the African sides who could break new ground.

Gabon – Group F

For Gabon, the path is narrow but still open. They are only a point behind Ivory Coast, who currently top their group. With games against Gambia and Burundi still to come, Gabon’s mission is clear: win both and hope the Elephants slip. It’s a tall order, but with the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leading the charge, the dream remains alive.

Uganda – Group G

Uganda’s task is a bit steeper. Sitting four points behind Algeria, the Cranes must beat Botswana and then somehow stun Algeria in Algiers. On top of that, they’ll be praying Somalia can pull off a shock against the Desert Foxes. It’s the longest of long shots, but World Cup qualifying has never been short of drama.

Cape Verde – Group D

If any debut hopeful looks likely, it’s Cape Verde. They lead their group with 19 points and need just one more win from their final two games—against Libya and Eswatini—to confirm their place in 2026. A single victory would secure their first World Cup ticket, a reward for years of steady growth in African football.

Madagascar – Group I

Madagascar are only three points off leaders Ghana, which keeps their hopes very much alive. With games against Mali and Comoros left, they’ll need to win both and hope Ghana falters against Central African Republic or Comoros. It’s a big ask, but if it happens, Madagascar would make one of the most magical stories of African qualifying.

Benin Republic – Group C

Benin are outsiders, but still in with a chance. They’re three points behind South Africa and must beat both Rwanda and Nigeria to stand any chance of progressing. On top of that, they’ll need Bafana Bafana to drop points. The odds aren’t great, but in football, surprises are always around the corner.

Why this is important

The 2026 tournament will be the first expanded World Cup with 48 teams, giving Africa more slots than ever before. That opens the door for new nations to join the party, bringing fresh energy and stories to the world stage.

Whether it’s Cape Verde’s steady rise, Madagascar’s resilience, or Gabon’s late push, the prospect of new African flags flying in 2026 adds extra excitement to the qualifiers.