Which Arab Nations Could Make a Deep Run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

With eight Arab nations set to feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hopes are high that the region can build on its recent successes and make a significant impact on football’s biggest stage.

As the tournament heads to the United States, Canada, and Mexico, several Arab teams will be aiming not just to participate, but to advance deep into the competition. Here’s a look at their prospects.

Morocco Lead the Charge

Morocco head into the tournament as the Arab world’s biggest hope after their historic run to the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The Atlas Lions shattered long-standing barriers for teams from the Middle East and North Africa, proving that a place among football’s elite is achievable. Four years later, expectations are even higher.

Led by Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi and bolstered by the creativity of Real Madrid playmaker Brahim Diaz, Morocco possess the quality and experience needed to compete with the best. While Brazil are expected to provide the toughest challenge in their group, Morocco will be confident of finishing ahead of Scotland and Haiti to secure a place in the knockout rounds.

Given their recent pedigree and growing confidence on the world stage, many fans across the Arab world will be backing the Atlas Lions to make another memorable run.

Egypt and Algeria Eye Knockout Qualification

Egypt have often struggled to translate their continental success into strong World Cup performances, but this tournament presents a genuine opportunity to change that narrative.

Belgium no longer possess the dominance that once made them one of Europe’s most feared sides, while Iran and New Zealand are opponents Egypt will believe they can overcome. Much could depend on the performances of Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah and Eintracht Frankfurt forward Omar Marmoush. If both players hit top form, Egypt could finally reach the knockout stages for the first time.

Algeria, meanwhile, may be one of the tournament’s most intriguing dark horses.

Under the guidance of experienced manager Vladimir Petkovic, the Desert Foxes have the tactical discipline and tournament know-how needed to navigate difficult situations. While Argentina are favourites to top Group J, the race for second place appears wide open.

Austria will provide stiff competition, but Algeria will fancy their chances against regional rivals Jordan. Although they may not boast the same golden generation that dazzled a decade ago, Algeria remain capable of causing surprises.

Qatar and Jordan Face Tough Challenges

Qatar and Jordan both arrive at the World Cup with reasons for optimism, but turning potential into results will be no easy task.

Qatar’s Asian Cup triumph demonstrated their quality, yet inconsistencies during World Cup qualification exposed several weaknesses. New head coach Julen Lopetegui is tasked with raising the team’s level, although much of their attacking threat still revolves around the brilliance of Akram Afif.

Jordan’s qualification marks a historic milestone, as they prepare for their first-ever World Cup appearance. Their impressive run to the 2023 AFC Asian Cup final showed they can frustrate stronger opponents, but the World Cup presents a far greater challenge.

Both nations have a path to the knockout rounds, but they will likely need near-flawless performances and a few favourable results elsewhere.

Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and Iraq Need Something Special

Saudi Arabia and Tunisia are no strangers to the World Cup stage, but both face daunting group-stage assignments.

Saudi Arabia have been drawn alongside Spain and Uruguay in Group H, two nations with rich footballing histories and three World Cup titles between them. The Saudis’ attacking struggles could make it difficult to keep pace with such elite opposition.

Tunisia, renowned for their defensive organisation and discipline, also face a challenging route. Drawn against the Netherlands, Japan and Sweden in Group F, they have little room for error. Against opponents capable of capitalising on even the smallest mistakes, Tunisia’s lack of proven attacking firepower could prove decisive.

For Iraq, simply qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in four decades is a remarkable achievement. However, their return to football’s grandest stage comes with an extremely difficult draw.

The Lions of Mesopotamia must contend with 2022 runners-up France, a dangerous Norway side led by Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard, and African giants Senegal.

Despite the challenge ahead, head coach Graham Arnold has built a reputation for getting the best out of underdog teams. Players such as Zidane Iqbal and Ali Al-Hamadi will be eager to showcase their talent on the global stage and help Iraq create one of the tournament’s biggest stories.

Can Another Arab Team Make History?

Morocco’s extraordinary journey in Qatar raised expectations across the Arab world and demonstrated that traditional football hierarchies can be challenged.

While Morocco remain the region’s strongest contender, Egypt and Algeria possess enough quality to reach the knockout rounds, while Qatar, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and Iraq will all be hoping to spring a surprise.

With eight Arab nations represented at the expanded 2026 World Cup, the region has more opportunities than ever before to leave a lasting mark on the tournament.