Qatar 2026: Ten African prospects ready for their global breakthrough

The 2026 U17 World Cup will take place in Qatar from 19 November to 13 December, with Africa represented by 10 nations: Algeria, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, Mali, Morocco, Mozambique, Senegal, Tanzania and Uganda.

The tournament offers a platform for players who have already made an impression at continental level, as well as teenagers developing in European academies. These are 10 African talents to watch, with analysis from Romaric N’Dri.

Algeria – Yacine Abed

Algeria will return to the U17 World Cup after several years away. Paradou AC forward Yacine Abed is included among the 21 Fennecs selected for Qatar and is expected to be an important attacking option as his side resumes its place on the global stage.

Cameroon – Douka Nkoto

Cameroon’s squad includes 16-year-old midfielder Douka Nkoto, who is part of the Manchester United set-up. His development in England has attracted attention, but the tournament will provide an opportunity to assess how he performs in an international environment. He is listed among the Indomitable Lions’ official squad.

Cote d’Ivoire – Hubert Yao

At 1.92m, San Pedro FC striker Hubert Yao has a notable physical presence for his age group. He is one of the 21 Elephanteaux chosen for Qatar, with his height offering a potential advantage in aerial challenges and physical duels. The next test will be whether he can influence matches against international defences.

Egypt – Adham Hasseib

Zamalek forward Adham Hasseib is included in Egypt’s final squad. His selection gives him the chance to establish himself as one of the Pharaohs’ attacking players while competing against the strongest teams in the tournament.

Mali – Ismael Kamissoko

Mali’s reputation for producing young footballers continues with Ismael Kamissoko, who plays for Academie Etoiles du Monde. The 16-year-old midfielder has been selected by the Aiglonnets and will have the opportunity to test himself against the leading players of his generation.

Morocco – Ziyad Baha

Olympique de Marseille striker Ziyad Baha brings previous U17 World Cup experience to Morocco’s squad, having appeared at the last edition. His familiarity with the competition is a valuable asset for the Lionceaux de l’Atlas, who have strong ambitions in Qatar.

Mozambique – Diego Elias Pelembe

Mozambique will make its first appearance at the U17 World Cup, with captain Diego Elias Pelembe among the players to watch. The Associacao Black Bulls midfielder scored twice at CAN U17 2026 and played an important role in his country’s campaign. His inclusion in the final squad underlines his importance to a historic generation.

Senegal – Assane Sarr

Ndiangane FC goalkeeper Assane Sarr is part of Senegal’s 21-man squad. His performances could prove significant for a side aiming to reaffirm its position among Africa’s leading teams at this level.

Tanzania – Dismas Athanasi

Tanzania’s Dismas Athanasi is only 14 but has already shown his goalscoring ability. The TFF Talent Development Scheme forward finished as the leading scorer at CAN U17 2026 with three goals and now has an opportunity to demonstrate his potential on the world stage.

Uganda – Owen Mukisa

Uganda secured qualification after a closely contested continental campaign. Vipers SC forward Owen Mukisa, aged 15, is included in the Cranes’ official squad. Standing 1.88m, he offers Uganda a strong physical presence in attack.

For all 10 players, Qatar will provide a major test: a chance either to establish themselves internationally or to build on the promise they showed at CAN U17 2026. Their performances will be closely watched by observers, scouts and supporters.