Former Arsenal manager and FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, Arsene Wenger, is optimistic about Africa’s chances of winning the World Cup soon, despite historical struggles.
Reflecting on the 2022 Qatar edition, where an African team came close to victory, Wenger believes the continent is on the cusp of producing a world champion.
As reported by the Athletic, He emphasizes the need for Africa to develop more academies to nurture talent for future success.
African hopes for a World Cup trophy
While only Cameroon, Senegal, Ghana, and Morocco have reached the quarter-finals in past tournaments, Wenger sees potential in countries like Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Algeria, Senegal, and Ghana to clinch Africa’s first World Cup trophy.
With the tournament historically dominated by teams from Europe and South America, the upcoming 2026 event in North America is expected to feature favorites like England, France, Brazil, Portugal, and Argentina.
Looking back at the 2010 World Cup held in South Africa, where Ghana reached the quarter-finals, Wenger highlights the continent’s progress and potential for future success.
Despite falling short of the semi-finals, Ghana’s performance showcased Africa’s capability on home soil.
With Morocco set to co-host the 2030 event alongside Spain and Portugal, the stage is set for an African team to rise to the occasion.
Previously Morocco’s breakthrough in the 2022 FIFA World Cup was a sign of what could come the way of African football.
The Atlas Lions made history as the first African nation to reach the semi-finals, defeating Portugal in a hard-fought one-nil victory.
Walid Regragui’s side displayed resilience, holding off Cristiano Ronaldo’s team in the face of a second-half onslaught.
This milestone achievement underscores Africa’s potential to compete at the highest level on the global stage.
