Former Nigeria Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has identified Morocco and Senegal as the African nations best placed to make a major impact at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

Speaking to SportsBoom.co.za, Akpeyi pointed to the quality and accumulated experience both sides have demonstrated in recent years as the foundation for his confidence. "I see Morocco and Senegal doing very well. They have the quality and experience, as shown in recent years," he said.

Setting the bar high

Akpeyi acknowledged that repeating or surpassing Morocco's historic run to the semi-finals at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar would be a tall order for any African side. "It will be difficult for African countries to make the top four again or surpass what Morocco achieved in Qatar, but in football there is always a chance," he noted.

Beyond the two frontrunners, the former shot-stopper highlighted South Africa Bafana Bafana as a potential dark horse, and expressed particular excitement about DR Congo's qualification. "Bafana Bafana could also be a surprise package, while DR Congo qualifying against the odds makes their participation especially exciting," Akpeyi said. "We could see a competition among the African countries over who stays the longest at the tournament. We have every reason as Africans to be excited ahead of the World Cup."

A record 10 African nations

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature a record 10 African nations, the continent's largest-ever presence at the tournament. Akpeyi believes the expanded field gives Africa a genuine platform to push further into the knockout rounds than ever before.

"It is a wonderful opportunity for the continent. With more teams, Africa has a real chance to reach the knockout stages and even the quarter-finals," he said. "Our players are playing week in and week out in Europe for some of the world's biggest teams. We also have a sizeable number of players who have already competed at the World Cup, and now it's up to us to seize this chance."

Akpeyi added that the mood across the continent reflects that belief. "I have been talking to some of my friends in other parts of the continent and there is an air of optimism — not only because of the increased numbers but also because of the opportunity that awaits in North America."