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African results justify World Cup slots increase amid criticism

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Kylian Mbappe of France battles for possession with Achraf Hakimi of Morocco during the FIFA World Cup USA 2026 quarter-final match, July 9, 2026. [AFP]

When four-time World Cup winners Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 tournament, then head coach Gennaro Gattuso lamented that Africa had so many places at the global showcase.

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