Ivory Coast and Ghana are the only African nations to win their World Cup 2026 openers, with both securing 1-0 victories in the expanded 48-team tournament.

From Cape Verde's debut to DR Congo's return, Africa's expanded presence at the 2026 World Cup brings new stories and renewed expectations of success.

Ivory Coast and Ghana are the only African nations to win their World Cup 2026 openers, with both securing 1-0 victories in the expanded 48-team tournament.