World Cup 2026: Mané, Marmoush, Bakambu… Africa’s biggest disappointments of the group stage

Expected to be the main leaders of their squads, several top African stars fell short during the group stage of the 2026 World Cup. Even though some teams advanced to the round of 16, their individual performances were well below expectations.

Senegal’s attacking leader, Sadio Mané, never managed to impose himself on games as he usually does. The former African Ballon d'Or winner played every minute of the three group matches, registering just one assist.

Against France, he remained quiet with only one shot on target and no chances created. Versus Norway, he provided an assist and created several opportunities, but still couldn’t tip the match in his team’s favor. Finally, in the big win over Iraq, he once again failed to score despite several attempts.

After 270 minutes, Mané finishes the group stage with one assist, two shots on target, nine key passes, and no goals.

Nicolas Jackson failed to deliver

The Senegalese striker was also highly anticipated. Yet, Nicolas Jackson ends the group stage without a single goal.

Starting the first two games before coming off the bench against Iraq, he managed one assist, seven shots (three on target), and was caught offside five times in 186 minutes. Not enough output for a center-forward expected to be one of the Lions of Teranga’s main attacking threats.

Omar Marmoush, nowhere near clinical

Egypt was counting on Omar Marmoush to support Mohamed Salah. In the end, the striker never managed to find the back of the net.

Starting the first two games before being benched against Iran, he played 211 minutes, took nine shots (only one on target), and made just one key pass. A very poor attacking return for one of the Pharaohs’ most anticipated players.

Antoine Semenyo, far from his best

Brilliant at Manchester City this season, Antoine Semenyo failed to replicate his club form with Ghana.

Present for all 270 minutes of the group stage, he managed only three shots, none on target. He also finished with four offsides and just one clear-cut chance—a record far from what was expected of him.

Cédric Bakambu fades with DR Congo

While Yoane Wissa carried the Democratic Republic of Congo into the round of 16, Cédric Bakambu remained in the shadows.

The Congolese striker played 193 minutes across the three matches without scoring a single goal. His stats were especially quiet: three shots (none on target), four offsides, and no real chances created.

With the knockout rounds approaching, several of Africa’s big names will need to quickly rediscover their best form. While some teams have managed to qualify thanks to the emergence of other players, they will need their stars to step up if they hope to keep their World Cup 2026 dreams alive.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

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