Former France captain Marcel Desailly has expressed optimism about Africa’s chances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighting the tournament’s expansion from 32 to 48 teams as a major opportunity for the continent.
Speaking in Abidjan during the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour, the ex-Chelsea defender singled out Côte d’Ivoire as Africa’s strongest contender to reach the final.
“Remember, statistically, Morocco managed to reach the semi-final during the past World Cup. We are now hoping that with nine African teams in the system, one of them will reach the final, so maybe Ivory Coast,” Desailly said.
“You don’t know, even though I love Ghana to go to the final, I believe that Ivorians have the potential to reach the final. The hope and belief give excitement to every single fan who loves the game because football is absolutely magnificent,” he added.
Côte d’Ivoire will be aiming to progress beyond the group stage for the first time, having exited in the opening rounds of their previous three World Cup appearances in 2006, 2010, and 2014.
Ghana, drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia, will also be targeting a breakthrough after an early exit at the 2022 Qatar tournament.
