The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be a spectacle, with a record 10 African nations participating in the expanded 48-team tournament. Among the stars to watch are Antoine Semenyo and Brahim Diaz, who will be looking to make their mark on the international stage. Here's a breakdown of seven African players to keep an eye on during the finals in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Antoine Semenyo (Ghana)
Semenyo, a London-born forward, is a rising star in the Premier League. His impressive goal-scoring form for Manchester City, coupled with his skill and impact in front of goal, makes him a key player for Ghana. With Tottenham's Mohammed Kudus out injured, Semenyo will be carrying the nation's hopes. His experience in the 2022 World Cup, albeit from the bench, and his recent form in the Premier League, make him a player to watch. Ghana's group stage exit in 2022 and their absence from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations add to the pressure on Semenyo and his teammates.
Yan Diomande (Ivory Coast)
Diomande, a 19-year-old sensation from the German Bundesliga, is a force to be reckoned with. His dribbling skills, duel-winning abilities, and attacking threat make him a dangerous player. Ivory Coast's return to the World Cup after a four-year absence, coupled with their strong performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, makes Diomande a key figure. Germany, Ecuador, and debutants Curacao will be wary of his influence.
Ronwen Williams (South Africa)
Williams, a 34-year-old goalkeeper and captain, is a veteran of big games. His penalty-saving heroics for Mamelodi Sundowns, including a remarkable four saves in a shootout against Cape Verde, showcase his experience and leadership. South Africa's return to the World Cup after a 16-year absence, and their target of progressing past the group stage, make Williams a pivotal figure. The co-hosts Mexico, the Czech Republic, and South Korea will be keen to test his skills.
Roberto 'Pico' Lopes (Cape Verde)
Lopes, a 33-year-old center-back, has been a cornerstone of Cape Verde's success. His experience and leadership, coupled with his strong performance in qualifying, make him a key player. Cape Verde's daunting group stage, including Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia, will test Lopes' abilities. His strong Irish accent and Dublin-born background add to the intrigue surrounding this player.
Brahim Diaz (Morocco)
Diaz, a Real Madrid playmaker, made waves at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, scoring five goals and reaching the final. However, his moment to forget came in the penalty shootout against Senegal, where his attempted Panenka was saved. Morocco's semi-final run in Qatar and their Group C opener against Brazil will be a chance for Diaz to shine and make up for his missed penalty. His former Spain Under-21 status and recent debut for Morocco add to the intrigue.
Ismaila Sarr (Senegal)
Sarr, a 28-year-old striker, is in fine form with 21 goals for Crystal Palace this season. His nine goals in the UEFA Conference League, helping the Eagles to their first European trophy, showcase his impact. Senegal's quest for a similar upset to their 2002 debut, where they beat France, will rely on Sarr's club form translating to the international stage. France, Norway, and Iraq will be keen to stop his influence.
Omar Marmoush (Egypt)
Marmoush, a 27-year-old forward, has been a key player for Manchester City, despite his $79.5 million price tag. His contributions to City's League Cup and FA Cup wins, along with his two goals at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, make him a vital part of Egypt's attack. Egypt's quest to win their first World Cup game, a feat they have yet to achieve, will rely on Marmoush's performances. Captain Mohamed Salah's recent injury and underwhelming season add to the pressure on Marmoush.
