Bounou, Ismaila Sarr, Diney Borges... the African team of the 2026 World Cup

Africa caused a sensation at the 2026 World Cup. 9 out of 10 teams advanced past the first round. This achievement was made possible thanks to standout individuals. Sport News Africa, based on the FIFA Power Ranking, reveals the Team of the Tournament for the 2026 World Cup.

Yassine Bounou (Morocco)

Yassine Bounou remained as consistent as ever. The Al-Hilal goalkeeper once again played his part in Morocco's excellent run in the competition, reaching the quarter-finals. In 6 matches at the 2026 World Cup, the Moroccan keeper recorded 2 clean sheets, 15 decisive saves, including 2.5 saves per game with an average of 71.4%. He also holds 4th place in the overall ranking for best goalkeepers in the FIFA Power Ranking.

Diney Borges (Cape Verde)

Diney Borges is one of Cape Verde's key players in defense. Beyond Vozinha, who made phenomenal saves, Borges was also impressive inside the box with crucial tackles and duels won.

An undisputed starter, Diney Borges played in all 4 matches for the Blue Sharks. In his 4 appearances, the Al-Sharjah central defender had 2.8 tackles, one interception, 3.5 balls recovered, 68% duels won, 80% pass completion...  per match. A successful first World Cup experience for Cape Verde and Diney Borges.

Ayyoub Bouaddi (Morocco)

Ayyoub Bouaddi was outstanding in his debut games wearing Morocco's colors. The 18-year-old midfielder played with notable maturity. He impressed right from the start with an exceptional performance against Brazil, forming a solid midfield trio with Azzedine Ounahi and Neil El Aynaoui.

The stats confirm the great World Cup of the 18-year-old gem. 5 games, 5 starts, the native of Senlis has already made his mark with Morocco. With 90% pass accuracy, 4.2 balls recovered, 1.8 tackles, 56% dribbles won, 58% duels won... Bouaddi put on a show with the Atlas Lions on the world's biggest stage.

Ismaila Sarr (Senegal)

With 4 goals, Ismaila Sarr is the top African scorer at the 2026 World Cup. Despite Senegal’s disappointing tournament, the Crystal Palace player managed to distinguish himself. On fire before the tournament started, he confirmed his good form despite being repositioned in the center.

Ismaila Sarr started all 4 games for the Lions. In addition to his 4 goals, he provided one assist. He also excelled offensively with 75% pass completion, 40% successful dribbles, and 46% duels won.

Nicolas Pépé (Ivory Coast)

Two goals and one assist in 4 matches (3 starts), Nicolas Pépé stands out as one of Ivory Coast's top performers at the 2026 World Cup. The left-footer from Villarreal was a real attacking threat for the Elephants: 85% pass completion, 57% successful dribbles, 40% aerial duels won, 30% accurate crosses.

African Team of the Tournament: Yassine Bounou (Morocco) - Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), Diney Borges (Cape Verde), Issa Diop (Morocco), Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco) - Ayyoub Bouaddi (Morocco), Azzedine Ounahi (Morocco), Emam Ashour (Egypt), Nicolas Pépé (Ivory Coast), Ismael Saibari (Morocco), Ismaila Sarr (Senegal)