Africa’s Ten Nations Head to World Cup

But Football Guru Baba Mthethwa Urges Caution

With just 15 days to go before the FIFA World Cup kicks off, Africa celebrates a historic milestone as 10 nations head to the global stage — but veteran broadcaster Baba Mthethwa urges caution, warning that depth, coaching changes, and over‑reliance on star players could temper expectations despite the numbers.

By LINDA XIMBA

this duo would be carrying Egypt's hopes during the World Cup

With just 15 days left before the FIFA World Cup kicks off, Africa is celebrating a historic milestone: 10 nations will represent the continent for the first time. Yet legendary broadcaster Baba Mthethwa has warned against getting carried away, urging fans to temper expectations and focus on consistent performances rather than numbers alone.

Drawing on decades of experience covering AFCON and World Cup tournaments, Mthethwa believes Senegal and Morocco remain Africa’s strongest hopes, but questions whether depth, coaching changes, and over‑reliance on star players could still hold others back.

Senegal skipper Sadio Mane would be carying his country's World Cup glory hopes on his shoulders

Senegal and Morocco carry Africa’s biggest hopes

Mthethwa tips Senegal to reach the quarter‑finals, praising their squad depth and the enduring influence of Sadio Mane. He also sees Morocco maintaining momentum from their 2022 semi‑final run, with attacking talents such as Brahim Diaz, Chemsdine Talbi and Ayoub El Kaabi, though warns that a coaching change could disrupt their rhythm. Egypt and Ghana seek redemption

Despite their pedigree, Egypt and Ghana have yet to shine on the World Cup stage. Mthethwa believes Ghana could surprise under Carlos Queiroz, supported by Roger de Sa, but is less optimistic about Egypt, arguing they rely too heavily on Mohamed Salah and an ageing squad.

Côte d’Ivoire and South Africa emerge as dark horses

Côte d’Ivoire, AFCON champions in 2023, boast a balanced side under Emerse Fae, with Simon Adingra, Amad Diallo and Sebastien Haller among their attacking threats. South Africa return to the World Cup for the first time since 2010, with Hugo Broos’ possession‑based style and talents like Lyle Foster and Teboho Mokoena offering hope of advancing beyond the group stage.

Smaller nations aim to surprise

Tunisia, Cape Verde, DR Congo and Algeria may fly under the radar, but each carries potential. Cape Verde’s qualification ahead of Nigeria was a shock, DR Congo’s forwards could trouble defences, and Algeria’s experienced squad may still struggle to progress deep despite their AFCON pedigree.