Can they reach the World Cup? SIA KAMBOU/AFP via Getty ImagesSebastien Desabre's team are the favourites to advance -- and increase Africa's World Cup contingent to 10 teams -- with the Leopards currently ranked 48th in the world, comfortably ahead of Jamaica (70) or New Caledonia (150). They've improved significantly since Desabre took the reins, and are closer than ever to a first World Cup appearance since their infamous showing in West Germany in 1974. Morocco under new managementDo any team enter this international break under a greater spotlight than Africa's new champions Morocco? They will then return home to face neighbours Gambia in Senegal on March 31.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 25, 2026 10:19 UTC