26 Nov 2023

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OPINION | Africa’s World Cup qualifying format is another missed opportunity

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Sgwili Gumede
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DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA - NOVEMBER 18: Half time during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Qualifier match between South Africa and Benin at Moses Mabhida Stadium on November 18, 2023 in Durban, South Africa.
DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA - NOVEMBER 18: Half time during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Qualifier match between South Africa and Benin at Moses Mabhida Stadium on November 18, 2023 in Durban, South Africa.
Darren Stewart/Gallo Images)

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The past week saw the start of the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers across most regions, including Africa. The next World Cup will be the biggest, having increased to 48 teams from 32 at last year’s edition – a 50% growth.

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