Ranking the Middle East and North African teams at World Cup 2026
You can follow the action on Al Jazeera’s dedicated World Cup 2026 page with all the latest news, match build-up and live text commentary, and keep up to date with group standings, real-time match re…
You can follow the action on Al Jazeera’s dedicated World Cup 2026 page with all the latest news, match build-up and live text commentary, and keep up
Read Full Story at Al Jazeera →Why This Matters
The World Cup 2026 will mark a pivotal moment for Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) football, as the expanded 48-team format offers unprecedented opportunities for regional sides to break through on the global stage. Beyond sporting prestige, these performances could reshape investment flows in football infrastructure, influence youth development programs, and even redefine the region’s soft power in sports diplomacy.
Background Context
MENA teams have historically underperformed relative to their footballing potential, often constrained by financial limitations, political instability, or the dominance of European club football in talent development. However, recent investments in academies, coaching reforms, and the growing influence of Gulf states in sports have created new pathways for regional sides to compete at higher levels.
What Happens Next
The tournament will serve as a litmus test for whether these investments translate into tangible results, particularly for nations like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Morocco, which have made aggressive strides in recent years. Success or failure could dictate future funding strategies, while underdogs like Algeria or Iraq may use the platform to reassert their regional influence.
Bigger Picture
This cycle reflects a broader shift in global football, where emerging markets—especially in the Gulf and North Africa—are challenging traditional European and South American powerhouses. The World Cup 2026’s format expansion further amplifies this trend, ensuring that MENA teams will no longer be mere participants but potential contenders.
