The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage is moving toward its decisive phase, with some teams already eliminated and others advancing to the knockout stage. Defending champions Argentina, France, Norway, and co-hosts Mexico and the United States have all secured their places in the next round.
Mixed Fortunes for African Nations
African teams have experienced varied outcomes at this tournament. Tunisia has already been eliminated after suffering a 9-1 aggregate defeat to Sweden and Japan. The remaining African sides still have a chance to reach the knockout stage, including the African champions, who lost their first two matches against France and Norway.
One clear trend emerging from the tournament is that several top African players should consider playing their last matches for their national teams and retire after the World Cup. Here is a look at some prominent African stars who should step away from international football.
Sadio Mane
Mane has enjoyed a remarkable career for both club and country. He led Senegal to two Africa Cup of Nations titles and has won the CAF Best Player award twice. According to the Liverpool Echo, Mane confirmed after the 2025 AFCON that he would retire from international football following the World Cup. Despite attempts by Pape Thiaw and others to change his mind, his performances at the tournament indicate that now is the ideal time to exit the international stage.
Kalidou Koulibaly
Koulibaly, alongside Mane, has been a cornerstone of Senegal's golden generation. However, the Al-Hilal defender has lost pace and sharpness, becoming increasingly erratic. He has been responsible for several goals conceded by Senegal at this World Cup. It is time for him to step aside and allow younger players to take over.
Édouard Mendy
Mendy's career has been remarkable since joining Chelsea in 2021. He won trophies with the London club, helped Senegal secure two AFCON titles, and claimed two AFC Champions League crowns with Al-Hilal. However, his performances at the World Cup and the goals he has conceded suggest that retiring now would preserve his legacy.
Idrissa Gana Gueye
Another veteran of the Senegalese squad, Gueye should also consider leaving the national team after the World Cup. Despite his small frame making him appear capable of continuing, he is no longer the player he was in his prime.
Riyad Mahrez
Mahrez has had a stellar international career since switching allegiance to Algeria. He won the AFCON and was named Africa's best player. As reported by Reuters, he has confirmed his intention to retire from international football after the World Cup, and his performances at the tournament support that decision.
Jordan Ayew
Even if Ayew is reluctant to leave, his performances and growing fan discontent indicate that retirement from international football after the 2026 World Cup is the right move.
Cedric Bakambu
Bakambu has served DR Congo for 11 years. After this World Cup, he should step aside to allow younger players to take his place.
Vozinha
At 40 years old, Vozinha has been one of the breakout stars of the 2026 World Cup. However, he is unlikely to secure a major move as a result and should retire while the applause is still loud.
CAF's Message to Mohamed Salah
In related news, CAF sent a message to Mohamed Salah ahead of what could be his final World Cup appearance. Salah remains one of Africa's top talents and may continue playing for Egypt, but many other stars are reaching the end of their international journeys.
