Former Germany international Gerald Asamoah has named Senegal and Morocco as Africa’s best hopes of making a major impact at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the Lions of Teranga earning his slight preference as the continent’s most dangerous contender.
Speaking to Flashscore about Africa’s prospects at the expanded 48-team tournament, Asamoah was asked which of the 10 qualified African sides could go furthest or spring the biggest surprise on the global stage.
Rather than focusing on individual star power, the former midfielder emphasised team cohesion and collective identity as the decisive factor.
“It’s not just about individuals; the unity in that team is special,” he said.
He singled out Senegal’s leadership core, pointing to the influence of experienced defender Kalidou Koulibaly as central to their stability. According to him, the squad’s strength lies in its continuity and togetherness, even as personnel changes over time.
“Players like Kalidou Koulibaly have been key, and even though it’s unclear how long some of their stars will remain, that spirit keeps them competitive,” he added.
“Morocco also has a very strong team, but if I had to pick one African side that could surprise again, I would go with Senegal.”
Asamoah’s assessment places Senegal marginally ahead of Morocco in the hierarchy of African challengers, despite Morocco’s sustained rise since their historic run to the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The Atlas Lions, led by Achraf Hakimi, have maintained their reputation for tactical discipline and defensive organisation.
Morocco’s consistency has kept them firmly among Africa’s elite, but Asamoah’s comments reflect a growing view that Senegal’s blend of experience, unity and resilience could once again make them the continent’s strongest bet on the global stage.
At the 2026 tournament, Morocco will face Brazil, Haiti and Scotland in Group C, while Senegal have been drawn against Norway, Iraq and France in Group I.
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