The draw is done. The debates have started. And for Africa, this World Cup feels different. There is real belief across the board. Some groups bring nostalgia. Some bring tension. Others bring straight-up opportunity.

Here is the full breakdown.

When Morocco’s name dropped into Brazil’s group, the room froze for a second. Old instincts tell you to fear Brazil. Modern reality tells you Morocco should back themselves. Morocco enters the tournament ranked 11th in the world. The highest ever FIFA ranking for an African team heading into a World Cup. On paper and on pitch, this squad is stronger than the 2022 team that reached the semifinals. Hakimi is in great form. The group offers a nice throwback with Scotland returning from that 1998 matchup. Brazil brings the glamour, but Haiti gives Morocco breathing space

◾️Takeaway: Morocco can top this group. 

◾️Hidden Stat: In 2022, Morocco did not concede a single goal from an opposition player until the semifinal.

🇸🇳 A 2002 Rematch With Real Bite

Senegal vs France again. Mane vs Mbappe again. If you believe in football storylines, this is a gift, but this is not the 2002 Senegal that shocked the world. This is a modern squad full of leaders. AFCON champions. Experience across the Premier League and Bundesliga. A settled identity under pressure. 

Norway with Haaland will be tricky, but the playoff winner in this group is far weaker. Senegal should qualify from this group with confidence.

◾️The Nottingham Factor: Senegal beat England in a friendly in June 2025. It was England’s first loss to an African side and ended a 21 match unbeaten record against African teams. 

◾️Tactical Edge: France has a habit of slow World Cup starts. They have drawn or lost group openers several times in the last two decades. This suits Senegal perfectly.

🇬🇭 The London Derby Nobody Saw Coming

Get ready. London will shut down when this kicks off. England vs Ghana in a competitive match for the first time ever at a major tournament. Ghana enters with more questions than answers. The talent is there. Kudus. Semenyo. But the team is still in transition and the form is inconsistent. 

The group also has Croatia, who are always difficult. Ghana will need one big performance to shake things up.

◾️The Gyan Moment: In 2011, Asamoah Gyan equalised at Wembley in the 91st minute. England fans still talk about the noise from the Ghanaian supporters. That day proved something. Ghana arrives everywhere with belief.

England’s History vs Africa: 

◾️1990: Needed extra time to beat Cameroon 
◾️2010: 0-0 vs Algeria 
◾️2025: Lost to Senegal

England rarely destroys African teams. The margins are always tight.

🇪🇬 Egypt: Salah’s Last World Cup? 

The group is kind. Belgium is the favourite, but Iran and New Zealand are manageable. Egypt needs four or six points to get out. This could be Salah’s last big run on the world stage. The path is open.

🇨🇮 Ivory Coast: Champions With A Chance

Germany is the least intimidating top seed. Ecuador is physical but beatable. Curacao must be handled with zero stress. Ivory Coast should back themselves to reach the knockouts again.

🇿🇦 South Africa: A Quiet Shot 

Mexico vs South Africa in the Azteca brings back memories of 2010. No giant in this group means South Africa has a real chance if the defense stays organised. Round of 16 is not crazy.

🇨🇻 Cape Verde: Toughest Draw 

Five wins and no goals conceded in qualifiers. Then they got Spain and Uruguay. Brutal. They must enjoy the experience and aim for one upset.

🇹🇳 Tunisia: Strong Defense, Low Ceiling 

Netherlands and Japan are too balanced for Tunisia’s limited attack. Clean sheets kept them alive in qualifiers. Goals may be the problem here.

🇨🇩 DR Congo: Do Not Ignore Them 

If they get through the playoffs, DR Congo arrives as the true dark horse. They already eliminated Nigeria and Cameroon. The defense has conceded once in four matches. Colombia and Uzbekistan are not bad matchups at all.

African teams enter this World Cup with real purpose. Morocco and Senegal look ready to lead. Egypt sees a clear route out of the group. Ivory Coast has a fair chance. Ghana could be the "shock team" Others will fight uphill battles, but the confidence across the continent is real. 

This is not about taking part anymore. Africa is coming to compete!