FIFA World Cup kicks off with record presence of Islamic nations

MEXICO CITY (MNTV) — As the iconic Estadio Azteca takes center stage for the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a historic chapter is being written for the global Muslim community.

With FIFA’s newly implemented 48-team format, a record-breaking 13 Muslim-majority nations have successfully qualified, turning this North American tournament into an unprecedented showcase of Islamic footballing talent.

From the passionate football hubs of North Africa and the Middle East to rising powers in Central Asia, these teams are arriving with more than just a desire to participate—they are aiming for deep knockout-stage runs, backed by elite, record-breaking talent.

Morocco: Strongest contender

Among the formidable lineup, Morocco stands out as the undisputed strongest contender among the Muslim nations. Carrying the momentum of their historic, breathtaking semi-final run at Qatar 2022—where they became the first Arab and African nation to reach the final four—the Atlas Lions are no longer viewed as underdogs.

Boasting world-class talent playing at the highest levels of European football, Morocco possesses a disciplined defensive structure and a lethal counter-attack.

Spearheaded by Paris Saint-Germain’s Achraf Hakimi, one of the finest full-backs in world football, and veteran goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, their tactical maturity makes them incredibly dangerous.

Drawn into a challenging Group C that includes powerhouse Brazil, their immediate task is to escape the group stage—but with their pedigree, a run to the quarter-finals, or even a repeat of their previous final-four heroics, is well within reach.

Rejuvenated Türkiye and global icons

Not far behind is Türkiye, making a highly anticipated return to the World Cup stage after a 24-year absence.

Led by talismanic playmaker Hakan Çalhanoğlu, a Scudetto winner and midfield orchestrator at Inter Milan, the Turkish squad brings immense tactical flexibility.

Alongside him is Real Madrid’s teenage prodigy Arda Güler, who entered the record books during the European qualifiers as one of the youngest players to ever score for the national team.

Placed in Group D alongside the United States, Paraguay, and Australia, Türkiye has a highly favorable path to the knockout rounds, where their high-energy style could easily see them break into the tournament’s final eight.

Meanwhile, Egypt enters the tournament resting its hopes on the shoulders of the legendary Mohamed Salah.

Already Egypt’s all-time top scorer in World Cup history and the fastest Liverpool player ever to reach 100 Premier League goal involvements, Salah is hungry to help the Pharaohs secure their first-ever match victory on the World Cup stage.

Africa’s representation is further bolstered by continental powerhouse Senegal, a threat to any elite team. From the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), Saudi Arabia brings a consistent pedigree, relying on national icon Salem Al-Dawsari, who scored the historic game-winner against Argentina in 2022—one of the great upsets in World Cup history.

Historic debuts and emotional returns

The expansion has also opened doors for historic milestones.

Both Jordan and Uzbekistan are celebrating their first-ever World Cup appearances, adding a fresh wave of enthusiasm and unpredictability to the group stages.

Additionally, Iraq makes an emotional and monumental return to the global stage for the first time since 1986.

As the opening ceremonies conclude and the matches begin across Mexico, Canada, and the United States, hundreds of millions of fans across the Muslim world will be watching closely, hoping this expanded tournament yields an unforgettable champion.

Muslim Nations in the 2026 FIFA World Cup