Marcel Desailly, a legend of French football, recently shared his thoughts on the chances of African teams in the upcoming World Cup. On the sidelines of the World Cup trophy tour in Abidjan, the 1998 World Cup champion expressed his views on the evolution of African football and the prospects for teams from the continent in the upcoming global competition.
During this press conference, Desailly first praised the impressive evolution of African football over the years. According to him, “the quality is there, the belief is there,” emphasizing that African teams have now reached a high level of competitiveness that allows them to compete with the best in the world. This evolution is not only visible in European clubs, where many African players play key roles, but also on the international stage, where the continent is increasingly making its mark.
The former player, who won two Champions League titles (with Marseille and Chelsea), pointed to the example of Morocco, which reached the semifinals in the last World Cup, as proof that African teams can go far in the competition. According to Desailly, Senegal is a team that could replicate this feat: “Just like Morocco reached the semifinals, Senegal can do the same.” He believes the Senegalese team has the qualities needed to rise to the highest level, thanks to a talented squad and strong momentum.
Côte d’Ivoire holds a special place in Desailly’s heart. The former center-back expressed his confidence in the Ivorian team, calling them a “favorite” for this competition. He believes Côte d’Ivoire has the potential to reach the final, thanks to experienced players and a cohesive group capable of shining on the world stage. Desailly didn’t hide his love for Ghana, but he remains optimistic about Côte d’Ivoire’s chances, highlighting the importance of belief and quality that characterize this team.
He also reminded everyone that nine African teams have already qualified for the competition, which represents a great opportunity for the continent. Desailly hopes one of these teams will go all the way, perhaps hoping that Côte d’Ivoire will reach the final, while also praising the ambitions of all African nations. He concluded by expressing his optimism for the future of African football and his desire to see a team from the continent play in the final act of the World Cup.
In short, Marcel Desailly, with his experience and knowledge of world football, is convinced that Africa has a say in this World Cup. He continues to closely follow the evolution of these teams and hopes for a brilliant run for one of them.
