Former Nigeria international goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi believes Africa’s increased representation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup presents a historic opportunity for the continent’s teams to make a deeper impact on football’s biggest stage.
The tournament, which kicks off in Mexico on June 11, will feature a record 10 African nations. Nine countries secured automatic qualification, while the Democratic Republic of Congo booked their place through the playoffs, marking Africa’s largest-ever contingent at a World Cup.
For Akpeyi, who represented Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, the expanded format could prove transformative for African football.
“It is a wonderful opportunity for the continent,” Akpeyi told SportsBoom.co.za. “With more teams, Africa has a real chance to reach the knockout stages and even the quarterfinals. Our players are competing every week in Europe for some of the world’s biggest clubs, and we now have many players with previous World Cup experience. The opportunity is there; it’s up to us to take it.”
The former goalkeeper revealed that excitement is building across the continent ahead of the tournament.
“I have been speaking to friends from different African countries, and there is a genuine sense of optimism. Not only because of the number of teams participating, but also because of the quality Africa is bringing to North America.”
Morocco and Senegal Tipped for Deep Runs
Akpeyi believes Morocco and Senegal are among Africa’s strongest contenders to make significant progress in the tournament, following their impressive performances in recent years.
Morocco made history at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar by becoming the first African nation to reach the semifinals, a feat Akpeyi believes could inspire other teams.
“I see Morocco and Senegal doing very well. They have quality, experience and strong squads, as they demonstrated at the recent Africa Cup of Nations,” he said.
While acknowledging the challenge of matching Morocco’s historic achievement, Akpeyi insists African teams have every reason to believe.
“It will be difficult for an African nation to reach the top four again, but football always gives you a chance. South Africa could be a surprise package, while DR Congo’s qualification against the odds makes them one of the exciting stories of the tournament.”
He added that healthy competition among African teams could fuel success.
“We could see a battle among African countries over who stays in the tournament the longest. As Africans, we have every reason to be excited.”
World Cup Remains Every Player’s Dream
Reflecting on his own career, Akpeyi described playing at the World Cup as the ultimate achievement for any footballer.
“It is every player’s dream to compete at the highest level,” he said. “I feel blessed to have represented Nigeria at the Olympics, AFCON and the World Cup. The World Cup was the pinnacle for me.”
The former shot-stopper said one of his most memorable experiences was sharing the field with players he had previously only watched on television.
“Many great players never get the chance to play at a World Cup. For me, competing against some of the biggest stars in football was unforgettable. I hope more African players get the opportunity to showcase their talent to the world, and the new format makes that possible.”
Akpeyi Throws Support Behind Bafana Bafana
With Nigeria missing out on qualification, Akpeyi says he will be supporting South Africa at the tournament.
“I will be rallying behind South Africa,” he said. “They have quality players who have developed together under Hugo Broos. You can clearly see the progress the team has made since he took over.”
Akpeyi highlighted young stars Relebohile Mofokeng and Mbekezeli Mbokazi as players capable of making a major impact during the competition.
“I’m excited to see Mofokeng get more opportunities, although team selection will depend on the coach. As for Mbokazi, the World Cup could completely change his career if he performs well against Mexico in the opening match.”
He believes a strong tournament could open the door to European football for the talented defender.
“He is playing with confidence right now. If he starts the tournament well, Europe could be his next destination.”
Regret Over Nigeria’s Absence
Despite his excitement for the tournament, Akpeyi admitted Nigeria’s failure to qualify remains a painful disappointment.
“It hurts to see our talented young players watching the World Cup from home, especially after missing out again following Qatar,” he said.
The former Super Eagles goalkeeper attributed Nigeria’s struggles to poor preparation during the qualification campaign.
“We have incredible talent, but preparation is crucial. Our poor start to the qualifiers reflected that. Look at Ghana; with all due respect, they may not have the same depth of talent, but they were organised and got the job done.”
Nonetheless, Akpeyi remains confident that Nigeria will return stronger.
“We are still one of Africa’s leading football nations. Our history at the Olympics and World Cup proves that. I have no doubt Nigeria will bounce back and, in four years’ time in Saudi Arabia, remind the world why we are regarded as giants of African football.”
Source: SportsBoom
