Former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimović has reportedly praised African football following South Africa’s qualification for the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Reacting to South Africa’s achievement, Ibrahimović reportedly urged FIFA to increase the number of African nations at future World Cups, insisting the continent’s style of play brings excitement to the global stage.
“This is a message to FIFA—they need to bring more African countries to the World Cup. Nigeria should be here too. Africa’s football is different. They don’t play unnecessary passes. When they get the ball, they attack you immediately. That’s the kind of football we want,” he reportedly said.
The former AC Milan and Barcelona forward also compared African football to the European game, describing Europe’s approach as overly tactical.
“Europe’s football is boring—too many back passes and too many tactics. Morocco and South Africa have qualified for the next round. Morocco is the best African team in possession, while South Africa is the best in counter-attacking football.”
Ibrahimović further predicted that an African nation could reach the semifinals of this year’s tournament and wished all the continent’s representatives success.
“I think an African team will reach the semifinals this year. I’m happy—they deserve it. I wish the whole of Africa luck in this tournament.”
His reported comments have sparked widespread discussion among football fans, with many celebrating his admiration for the quality, intensity, and growing influence of African football on the world stage.
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