Morocco draw Brazil as South Africa face Mexico in World Cup 2026 showdown

Africa’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is paved with drama, history, and opportunity. Morocco, the continent’s top-ranked team and Qatar 2022 semifinalists, headline the African contingent after landing in Group C alongside five-time champions Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. Catch all the World Cup action live on SuperSport.

It’s the draw that will command global attention: the Atlas Lions versus the Seleção — a clash of flair, resilience, and pedigree that promises to light up the group stage.

The stage is set. Who triumphs? 🏆@aramco | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/21qBVC6KlE — FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) December 5, 2025

BAFANA’S RETURN COMES WITH A MEXICAN TEST

For South Africa, the World Cup comeback after 16 years begins in Group A, where they face co-hosts Mexico, South Korea, and the winner of European Play-off A.

Bafana Bafana’s challenge is steep but balanced — and history beckons as they chase a first-ever knockout stage appearance.

BALANCED PATHS FOR IVORY COAST, TUNISIA, AND EGYPT

Not all African sides were thrown into the lion’s den.

Ivory Coast, three-time African champions, join Group E with Germany, Curaçao, and Ecuador. Germany loom large, but the Elephants will fancy their chances of advancing.

Tunisia land in Group F with the Netherlands, Japan, and a European play-off winner. The Dutch pose a stern test, yet Tunisia’s grit could turn the tide against Japan and the play-off entrant.

Egypt, back for the first time since 2018, arguably drew one of Africa’s friendlier groups. The Pharaohs meet Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand in Group G, a bracket that offers a genuine shot at progression.

CAPE VERDE AND ALGERIA FACE HEAVYWEIGHTS

For Cape Verde, history begins in Group H against Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia. The Blue Sharks’ maiden World Cup voyage is a baptism of fire — but also a stage to showcase their meteoric rise.

Algeria, meanwhile, drew one of the tournament’s toughest lots: Group J with Argentina, Austria, and Jordan. Their opener against the reigning world champions will be among the most anticipated fixtures of the group stage.

SENEGAL RENEWS RIVALRY WITH FRANCE; GHANA IN STERN GROUP L

Senegal, Africa’s second-ranked side, rekindles its iconic rivalry with France in Group I, alongside Norway and a South American–Asian play-off winner. The Lions of Teranga face a demanding but thrilling campaign.

Ghana enter Group L, where England, Croatia, and Panama await. The Black Stars, famed for their World Cup heroics, will need every ounce of that pedigree to survive one of the draw’s most balanced yet unforgiving groups.

DR CONGO STILL IN THE HUNT

Africa’s contingent could yet grow. DR Congo must overcome Jamaica and Iraq in March to join Group K with Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan — a tantalising prospect for the Leopards.

From blockbuster clashes to historic reunions, Africa’s World Cup journey promises drama and possibility. Preparations now intensify as the countdown begins to the most ambitious and geographically expansive World Cup ever staged.