The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be a spectacle, with a record 10 African nations participating in the expanded 48-team tournament. Among the stars to watch are Antoine Semenyo and Brahim Diaz, who will be looking to make their mark on the international stage. Here's a breakdown of seven African players to keep an eye on during the tournament.
Antoine Semenyo (Ghana)
Semenyo, a London-born forward, had a breakthrough season with Manchester City, scoring seven goals in 17 Premier League appearances. His skill and form make him a key player for Ghana, especially with Tottenham's Mohammed Kudus out injured. Semenyo's experience from the 2022 World Cup, where he was used sparingly, will be crucial as Ghana aims to progress beyond the group stage. With a challenging group including England, Croatia, and Panama, Semenyo will need to step up and deliver.
Yan Diomande (Ivory Coast)
Diomande, a 19-year-old sensation from Ivory Coast, has been making waves in the German Bundesliga. His 12 goals and eight assists for RB Leipzig earned him the Rookie of the Season award, and he's now linked with big-money moves to top clubs. Diomande's dribbling and duel-winning abilities make him a dangerous attacking threat. Ivory Coast, returning to the World Cup after a four-year absence, will face Germany, Ecuador, and debutants Curacao. Diomande's impact will be crucial for the Elephants' success.
Ronwen Williams (South Africa)
South Africa, back at the World Cup for the first time since 2010, relies heavily on goalkeeper and captain Ronwen Williams. The 34-year-old has big-game experience, having just won the African Champions League with Mamelodi Sundowns. Williams' penalty-saving heroics in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals against Cape Verde showcase his importance. South Africa's opening game against Mexico is a must-win, and Williams will be pivotal in their quest to progress past the group stage.
Roberto 'Pico' Lopes (Cape Verde)
Cape Verde, a small island nation, has been making waves in African football. Lopes, a center-back, has been a key player in their success. Initially approached via LinkedIn, Lopes has become a vital part of the national team, helping them reach the last eight at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and qualify for the World Cup. With a challenging group including Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia, Lopes' experience and leadership will be essential for Cape Verde's chances.
Brahim Diaz (Morocco)
Diaz, a Real Madrid playmaker, had a memorable Africa Cup of Nations, scoring five goals as Morocco reached the final. However, his penalty miss against Senegal in the semi-finals will haunt him. Diaz, a former Spain Under-21 international, now has the chance to make up for his mistake and help Morocco go all the way. With Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti in their group, Diaz's impact will be crucial for the Atlas Lions.
Ismaila Sarr (Senegal)
Sarr, a 28-year-old forward, is in fine form with 21 goals for Crystal Palace this season. His nine UEFA Conference League goals helped the Eagles win their first European trophy. Senegal, the reigning African champions, faces a tough group with France, Norway, and Iraq. Sarr's club form will be key to Senegal's chances of an upset, especially after their early exits in previous World Cups.
Omar Marmoush (Egypt)
Marmoush, a 27-year-old forward, has been a valuable asset to Manchester City, helping them win the League Cup and FA Cup. Despite a modest Premier League start, he's a key player for Egypt. With captain Mohamed Salah returning from injury, Marmoush will be expected to deliver. Egypt, a seven-time African champion, seeks its first World Cup win, having exited in the group stage in 1990 and 2018. Marmoush's impact will be crucial for the Pharaohs' success.
