Algeria

Africa's most successful team of the last decade or so, the Desert Foxes have built a reputation as a gritty, well-organized side that punches above its weight on the world stage, highlighted by their stunning 2019 Africa Cup of Nations title. Heading into 2026, they're coming off a frustrating stretch that included missing the 2022 World Cup entirely after a painful playoff loss, so there's a real chip-on-the-shoulder energy around this squad as they try to prove that run was a blip. Keep an eye on whether veteran star Riyad Mahrez can still turn on the magic — when he's on, he's the kind of player who can single-handedly make a team look dangerous against anyone.