Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa has stated that African nations have what it takes to make a significant impact at the ongoing FIFA 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
“I was very impressed with how the Moroccans played against the Brazilians. They dominated them for long spells of the game and could have even won it,” Onazi exclusively told Footy-Africa.com. “You could see that they had confidence going into the game and, with what they achieved last time out in Qatar, they seem determined to go a step further and do even more.”
“I was impressed with them and they showed no fear by taking the game to the Brazilians. I hope our other African brothers can emulate them,” he added.
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When asked about the chances of the continent’s other representatives, notably Ghana, DR Congo, Egypt and Algeria, the former Lazio midfielder said he was confident they could hold their own.
“This expanded format gives more room for the best third-placed teams, so I am sure we will see more African countries in the knockout stages,” he said. “Algeria have a tough group that includes Argentina, Austria and Jordan. I think the Argentina game will be difficult, but they can still get something from it.”
“For Ghana, even though they are our rivals, they have to navigate their way through England, Panama and Croatia, which on paper looks very difficult but still doable. I also see Egypt making the most of their group. If they can get something from the Belgium game, then they can finish second. As for DR Congo, the country that got the ticket ahead of us, they have to be at their very best, to be honest.”
“That group is crazy and I think they will come third with a good record, considering they have Portugal and Colombia to contend with. I think those countries can make it to the knockout stages alongside Morocco, who have already sent a message.”
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Onazi also reflected on his own World Cup experiences with Nigeria. The former Super Eagles midfielder represented the country at both the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups and was asked to identify the finest performance of his tournament career.
“I know a lot of people will be surprised by this answer, but I have participated in two World Cups and, for me, the game against France in the Round of 16 is my best,” he said. “I was playing very well and dominating that French midfield that had Paul Pogba and Blaise Matuidi. I felt we could get something from the game.”
“I was really happy with my performance and the team’s performance against the French, whom many thought would overrun us. Unfortunately, I suffered a nasty injury when Matuidi tackled me. I had to leave the game and it was from there that they took the initiative and won the game.”
“It was a bittersweet experience for me, but it remains my best game at the World Cup.”
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Africa’s campaign did not begin on the best note after South Africa suffered a 2-0 defeat to hosts Mexico in the tournament’s opening match. However, Morocco restored some pride for the continent with an impressive display against Brazil, earning a 1-1 draw against the five-time world champions.
The Atlas Lions received widespread praise for their dominant performance, and Onazi believes their showing proves that African teams can compete with the very best on football’s biggest stage.
