The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region will be represented by a record eight teams at the 2026 World Cup: Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia. This is an unprecedented number of Arabic-speaking nations at a single tournament.
Morocco's historic run to the semifinals in Qatar 2022 has boosted confidence across the region. Many MENA teams now believe they can advance from the group stage in North America. Al Jazeera breaks down each team's chances.
Algeria returns to the World Cup for the first time since 2014. The team boasts attacking depth with Riyad Mahrez, Mohamed Amoura and Adil Boulbina. However, defensive inconsistency and goalkeeping issues remain weaknesses. Algeria is drawn in Group J with Argentina, Austria and Jordan. The opening match against Argentina will be a major test.
Egypt has never won a World Cup match despite dominating Africa with seven AFCON titles. Their attack is dangerous, but defensive lapses persist. In Group G, they face Belgium, New Zealand and Iran. The match against New Zealand is their best chance for a historic first win.
Iraq returns after a 40-year absence. Their strengths are mentality and set pieces, with Aymen Hussein a key aerial threat. Group D includes France, Senegal and Norway. The opening match against Norway offers the best opportunity for points.
Jordan makes its World Cup debut. The team is defensively organized and dangerous on the counterattack, led by Mousa Al-Tamari. In Group J, they face Argentina, Algeria and Austria. The match against Algeria could be decisive.
Morocco enters as a favorite after reaching the semifinals in 2022. The squad is balanced with strong defense and creative attack. In Group C, they face Brazil, Scotland and Haiti. The Brazil match is a key test. A quarterfinal run is expected.
Qatar returns after a disappointing home campaign in 2022. In Group B, they face Switzerland, Canada and Bosnia. The match against Canada could be crucial. Akram Afif and Almoez Ali are key players.
Saudi Arabia, which beat Argentina in 2022, faces Spain, Cameroon and New Zealand in Group H. Tunisia meets Portugal, Paraguay and Australia in Group F. Both aim to advance from the group.
Source: www.aljazeera.com