Abstract
Despite Africa’s abundant football talent and increasing presence at the FIFA Men’s World Cup, no African team has yet won the tournament. This study examines the major psychological barriers that have hindered African teams’ success, focusing on performance anxiety, experience gaps in high-pressure matches, collective efficacy challenges, stereotype threat, and the influence of socioeconomic and structural factors. Through comparative data analysis and relevant psychological theories, the research highlights how limited exposure to elite competition, insufficient sports psychology support, and negative external perceptions contribute to inconsistent performances. Case studies of Ghana (2010), Senegal (2002), and Cameroon (1990) illustrate these dynamics in real-world contexts. The study concludes with strategic recommendations for integrating mental skills training, improving player exposure, stabilizing team cohesion, and addressing systemic challenges. Addressing these psychological factors is critical to narrowing the performance gap and enhancing the potential for African teams to achieve historic success at future World Cups.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Daniel Chinonso * Ochor