2026 World Cup: Ismaïla Sarr, Wissa, Mahrez... the African stars who shone in the group stage

African players have left their mark on the group stage of the 2026 World Cup. Several of them are among the tournament's top attacking contributors and have played decisive roles in their teams' qualification for the round of 32.

Senegal's Ismaïla Sarr has been the continent's most outstanding player so far. The winger scored three goals and provided one assist in three matches, notching up four decisive contributions. He bagged a brace during Senegal's 3-2 loss to Norway, then added another goal against Iraq (5-0). Sarr currently sits eighth among the tournament's leading offensive contributors.

Yoane Wissa, DR Congo’s hero

Congolese forward Yoane Wissa has also made headlines. With three goals to his name, he led DR Congo to a historic qualification for the round of 32. After equalizing against Portugal, he struck twice in the 3-1 win over Uzbekistan, helping the Leopards finish among the best third-placed teams.

Senegal dominates African statistics

Senegal boasts another standout in Pape Guèye. The Villarreal midfielder netted a brace and supplied an assist in the rout against Iraq. His compatriot Iliman Ndiaye matched that tally with a goal and two assists.

Mahrez and Pépé step up

Algeria’s Riyad Mahrez rediscovered his clinical touch on the final matchday. His brace against Austria, along with an assist against Jordan, brought his total to three decisive contributions.

For Ivory Coast, Nicolas Pépé fired the Elephants into the round of 32 with both goals in their 2-0 win over Curaçao.

Other African talents on show

Egypt's Mohamed Salah, along with Moroccans Achraf Hakimi and Soufiane Rahimi, each registered a goal and an assist. Algeria's Houssem Aouar, Morocco's Brahim Díaz, and Tunisia's Hannibal Mejbri all weighed in with two assists apiece.

These performances confirm the growing influence of African internationals on the world stage. Led by a prolific Senegal, several of the continent’s representatives now head into the knockout rounds determined to keep their impressive momentum alive.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.