Sagna tips France for World Cup glory, says Africa closing gap on football’s elite

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Former France and Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna has backed France to win the FIFA World Cup, describing Didier Deschamps’ side as the team to beat despite their hard-fought Round of 16 victory over Paraguay.

Speaking during a FIFA World Cup virtual media roundtable organised by SuperSport, Sagna said France have a history of growing into major tournaments rather than peaking early, insisting their narrow win over Paraguay highlighted the team’s maturity rather than any weakness.

“I still believe France has a good chance to win the World Cup because the national team never started a competition on the high. It has always been a build-up,” Sagna said, predicting France would defeat Morocco and eventually lift the trophy.

He also praised Kylian Mbappé and the squad’s composure under pressure, describing France’s depth as unmatched.

Beyond France’s prospects, Sagna said African football has made remarkable progress, arguing that the gap between the continent and Europe’s traditional powers continues to narrow due to improved organisation, youth development and stronger football structures.

According to him, Africa’s next challenge is psychological rather than technical.

“Africa needs to be aware that it has talent. They should not start or finish games with a complex of inferiority,” he said, expressing confidence that an African nation would eventually reach the World Cup final.

Sagna identified Morocco as Africa’s benchmark, attributing the country’s recent success to sustained investment in youth football, particularly through the Mohammed VI Football Academy, established in 2009 and 2010.

He also expressed disappointment over Senegal’s World Cup exit but refused to blame the coaching staff, insisting the players should take responsibility for losing control during the closing stages of matches.

On Nigeria, Sagna admitted he was surprised the Super Eagles failed to qualify for the tournament, describing the country as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.

“When I landed, I saw Alex Iwobi and I was like, ‘Shouldn’t you be on the field?’ Then I realised they had not qualified,” he said, urging Nigerian supporters to remain patient and continue backing the national team.

Reflecting on his own international career, Sagna revealed he had hoped to represent Senegal before eventually choosing France after both countries approached him around the same time.

He urged young dual-nationality footballers to “follow your heart,” saying there is no wrong choice when representing one’s country.