Finidi George Assesses Africa's World Cup Campaign
Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George has evaluated the performances of Africa's representatives at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that the continent's teams have made a respectable start despite Tunisia becoming the first African nation eliminated. A record 10 African teams qualified for the expanded 48-team tournament, offering unprecedented opportunities to advance to the knockout stages.
Tunisia's campaign ended after heavy losses to Sweden (5-1) and Japan (4-0), leading to the dismissal of coach Sabri Lamouchi and the appointment of Hervé Renard. Finidi singled out Tunisia as the only major disappointment, noting that other teams have competed well.
Encouraging Results Across the Continent
Finidi highlighted several positive outcomes: Morocco secured a draw against five-time world champions Brazil, Cape Verde held Spain to a goalless stalemate, and DR Congo and Ghana have shown competitive form. He told Legit.ng: "So far, I think African teams are not doing badly. It's just Tunisia that lost 5-1 to Sweden and 4-0 to Japan. For the rest, I think they all played well."
Morocco have four points from two matches, placing them in a strong position to reach the round of 32. A draw against Haiti would guarantee a top-two finish in Group C. Egypt also sit top of Group G with four points after a historic 3-1 victory over New Zealand, with Mohamed Salah becoming Egypt's all-time leading World Cup scorer.
Tunisia's Early Exit and Financial Windfall
According to the BBC, Tunisia's elimination was sealed after Japan's 4-0 victory. Finidi admitted: "It's going to be a struggle now." Despite their early exit, Tunisia will receive $10.5 million from FIFA, including $1.5 million in preparation funds and $9 million for participation.
The expanded 48-team format means the top two teams in each of the 12 groups automatically qualify, along with the eight best third-placed sides. This structure keeps several African teams in contention despite imperfect starts.
Other African Teams' Prospects
South Africa face a delicate situation in Group A, needing a win against South Korea and favorable results elsewhere. Cape Verde have impressed with draws against Spain and Uruguay, and a win over Saudi Arabia would secure progression. Ghana could top Group L by defeating England if Croatia fail to beat Panama. DR Congo remain well placed after frustrating Portugal and face Colombia next.
Senegal cannot be eliminated yet but need a result against Norway to avoid pressure. Algeria risk elimination if they lose to Jordan and Argentina avoid defeat against Austria. Finidi remains optimistic: "It's a must-win for the last two games for teams on the continent. We'll see what happens, but so far African teams are not doing badly."
