Senegal's Mbaye joins Opabunmi, Ogbeche, and Song

In Africa’s Youngest World Cup Starters Ranking

Ibrahim Mbaye, who was selected in Senegal’s starting XI for their current match against Iraq, has joined an exclusive group of African footballers who began a FIFA World Cup match at age 18 or younger—a distinguished list that includes two Nigerian forwards.

Opta statistics show the PSG talent appears among the youngest African players to start a World Cup match, placing him alongside several historic teenage debutants from the continent.

Nigeria’s presence on this elite list remains highly significant, with Femi Opabunmi and Bartholomew Ogbeche both holding prominent positions in World Cup history.

Opabunmi is the youngest African player to start a World Cup match, having played at just 17 years and 101 days old.

The former Nigerian international made his appearance at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, cementing his name in the record books as one of the tournament’s most remarkable teenage starters. In third place is compatriot Ogbeche, who also represented Nigeria at the 2002 edition of the competition.

The forward began a World Cup match at 17 years and 244 days, further underscoring Nigeria’s reputation for producing exceptional young talents capable of performing on football’s biggest stage.

Cameroon’s Salomon Olembé and Rigobert Song also appear on the list, highlighting Africa’s rich history of youthful participation at the global tournament.