It’s now less than two months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off in Mexico City. Mexico will meet South Africa in the first of 104 games across four weeks with 48 teams set to compete, the most ever at a major tournament.
That huge number of teams means that Africa is represented better than ever on the world’s biggest stage for football. A total of 10 teams will travel to Canada, the United States and Mexico from the continent, twice as many as the last World Cup and more representation for Africa than ever before. It’s bound to be one of the most exciting tournaments in history for African teams, so be sure to check out Bettors for an all-in-one football betting guide.
It’s an opportunity for Africa to show off its plethora of talent on the world stage. Here’s three young stars out of Africa who might make a name for themselves, their nation and their continent at the World Cup come June.
Yan Diamonde- Ivory Coast’s next superstar
Born in Abidjan but raised in Florida, USA, a World Cup in an Ivory Coast shirt on American soil is bound to leave Yan Diamonde feeling he has something to prove. The 19-year-old winger currently plays for RB Leipzig, and is one of the most exciting young wingers in Europe. Capable on both wings, Diamonde is explosive, technical and direct.
The youngster has already laid claim to a starting spot for his country, and after 9 caps for his country, will be looking to build on his legacy at his nation’s first World Cup since 2014. Whatever happens, he’s bound to be one of the most exciting players to watch at the World Cup.
Ibrahim Mbaye- Senegal’s young spark
18-year-old Ibrahim Mbaye is the next great hope of Senegalese football. Currently at PSG, Mbaye has already been breaking records, becoming the youngest player to play for PSG and the youngest player to win the UEFA Super Cup. Born in France to Senegalese and Moroccan parents, his declaration for Senegal was a massive coup by Senegal and Pape Thiaw.
Used largely off the bench at AFCON, his role will only grow as he does. His experience as such a young age gives him a unique mental fortitude, and he remains composed in tough moments. Used primarily as a winger, he’s bound to cause opposing teams problems when used for his country.
Bilal El Khannouss- Morocco’s secret weapon
Bilal El Khannouss, currently playing as an attacking midfielder for Stuttgart, is in the interesting position of being young, just 21 years old, and also having World Cup experience. El Khannouss was the youngest member of the Morocco squad in 2022, when Morocco became the most successful African team in World Cup history by making it to the semi-finals.
With Morocco widely considered to be Africa’s best chance at a deep run at the World Cup, plenty of faith is being put in El Khannouss. He is also backed by other more established talent like Brahim Diaz and Achraf Hakimi, relieving some of the weight on his shoulders and giving him space to perform. With his level of talent, especially in tight spaces, this could be the opportunity he’s needed to explode onto the world stage.
