CAIRO: Africa is looking to double the number of World Cup places it receives for the expanded 2026 World Cup.

The continent currently receives five places in the 32-team tournament, and wants five of the 16 new positions for the 48-team 2026 edition.

An African side has never reached the World Cup Semi Finals, with two of their teams reaching the last 16 in 2014 and the other three exiting at the group stage.

South African FA chief Danny Jordaan said: “All associations back the idea to expand the World Cup and there is hope that Africa can have 10 places,” Europe are seeking 16 places, on the proviso that all of their teams are separated at the group stage.

“Asia are expected to receive eight or nine places, whilst the North and Central American region may have 6.5 positions. The Oceania region would also receive one guaranteed position in the finals.

The final allocation of places is expected to be agreed by FIFA Council on the eve of congress in Bahrain in May.

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