The 2026 ITTF Africa Cup serves off on Friday in Benghazi, Libya, with 45 players from 14 countries battling for continental honours and places at the World Cup.
The tournament features 27 men and 18 women, with winners earning qualification for the 2026 ITTF World Cup, scheduled for March 30 to April 5.
It also marks a historic moment for Libya, which is hosting an international table tennis competition for the first time. The event is expected to deliver thrilling matches as Africa’s top stars face a new generation of challengers.
Egypt’s Omar Assar, a six-time champion, returns as one of the favourites. However, he faces stiff competition from players determined to end his dominance.
“Every match will be a battle,” Assar said ahead of the tournament.
Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna, a five-time champion, is also chasing history. A title win would see him equal Assar’s record and revive their long-standing rivalry.
Despite limited recent international appearances, Aruna is expected to rely on his experience and fighting spirit to challenge for the crown.
Egypt have additional threats in Youssef Abdelaziz and Mostapha Badr, both aiming for strong finishes in a competitive field.
Other contenders include Ylane Batix (Cameroon), Abdel-Kader Salifou (Benin), Mehdi Bouloussa (Algeria) and Tunisia’s teenage prospect Wassim Essid.
Libya’s Habeb Alajaebi will enjoy strong home support, with a place in the knockout rounds seen as a major achievement.
In the women’s event, Egypt again leads the charge through Hana Goda, Dina Meshref and Mariam Alhodaby.
Goda, just 18 and already a three-time champion, believes her experience will help her stay on top. Meshref, a nine-time winner, hopes to reclaim her title, while Alhodaby continues her push for a first Africa Cup triumph.
Nigeria’s Fatimo Bello, Tunisia’s Ela Saidi and Algeria’s Jade Marice are among the rising stars looking to upset the favourites.
With pride, titles and World Cup qualification at stake, the stage is set for an exciting week of table tennis in Benghazi.
