University of Johannesburg (UJ) football coach Karabo Mogudi has highlighted tactical fatigue as a critical factor behind African teams' struggles during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Despite a strong group stage performance with nine African teams advancing to the knockout stage, most were eliminated in the last 32, with no African representatives in the semifinals.

Mogudi explained that the inability to maintain tactical structures throughout matches, particularly in the final 10 minutes, leads to late-game losses.

He emphasized the importance of endurance in maintaining formations and strategies, noting that some foreign coaches have suggested prolonging tactical discipline could result in late goals.

The coach also discussed the significance of preseason training camps, stressing the need for coordination between coaches, fitness staff, and medical teams to ensure players are physically and mentally prepared.

The article underscores the challenges African teams face in sustaining performance over extended matches, with Mogudi's insights offering a strategic perspective on improving competitiveness in global tournaments.