About this episode
The road to the 2030 World Cup starts in Africa.
David Gass and Matt Doyle take stock of African soccer after the 2026 World Cup, discuss the continent's next chapter with the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on the horizon, and look at which nations are best positioned to challenge over the next four years.
They discuss the rise of Cape Verde, Egypt, DR Congo and Ivory Coast, examine what's next for Senegal and Tunisia, spotlight Africa's next generation of talent, and debate whether Nigeria, Cameroon and other contenders can return to the top of African football before 2030.
This episode kicks off First Touch's Road to the 2030 World Cup series, where we preview every confederation, the biggest storylines, and the teams to watch on the road to the next FIFA World Cup.
0:00 The state of African soccer
4:45 Cape Verde's breakout
6:57 Egypt & DR Congo on the rise
11:31 Senegal and Tunisia at a crossroads
14:49 Africa's next generation
17:04 Ivory Coast & Morocco shine
19:06 Africa's remaining contenders
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