“We still believe”: Ganet’s leadership driving a nation’s 2026 World Cup quest

When Pablo Ganet pulls on the red shirt of Equatorial Guinea, he carries more than just a nation’s hopes — he carries the story of a team that refused to be defined by its size, a country that dared to dream beyond its limits, and a player who found his true self through football.

At 30, Ganet has become the soul of the Nzalang Nacional, leading them into the final stretch of their 2026 FIFA World Cup™ qualifying campaign. With two games remaining — away to Malawi and home to Liberia — the midfielder believes the dream of reaching football’s biggest stage is still alive.

“Yes, it’s going to be tough but we still have hope we can make the World Cup,” he said.

“Although it’s only group winners that qualify directly, second placed teams will get another opportunity in the next round. For us it’s clear: we have to win both our games next week and hope other teams drop points. If that happens, we’re still in with a chance.”

A journey of identity and belonging

Born in Spain to an Equatoguinean father and Spanish mother, Ganet’s story mirrors the growing number of dual-heritage Africans redefining football on the continent. His career began in Seville with Real Betis, before winding through Morocco, Kuwait, Oman, and now Indonesia — a football journey that has shaped his game and his character.

“Each spell gave me something different, and I even got to win the league in Morocco,” he recalled. “In Spain the focus is more on tactics and technique, while in Africa and Asia the football is more direct and physical. I learned to adapt to the different playing styles. Those experiences helped me develop as a player and, now after a few months with Persita Tangerang, I’m really happy to be here.”

Despite his global travels, his heart remains firmly rooted in Africa. “I’m now one of the national team captains and among the players with the most appearances in our history. For me, it’s a huge source of pride. I wasn’t born in Equatorial Guinea, but my father and much of my family are from there, so every call-up feels very special,” he said.

A new era for Equatorial Guinea

When Ganet made his debut more than a decade ago, few would have predicted how far the national team would come. Back then, Equatorial Guinea rarely won away matches and often failed to qualify for major tournaments. But under a new generation of players, they have transformed into one of Africa’s most consistent performers.

“When I first joined 11 years ago, we were just a small team. We never won away and we would struggle to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations,” he said. “But things have changed now. We’ve qualified three times in a row, and today Equatorial Guinea are recognised as a strong side in African football.”

That strength has been built on unity and belief — something Ganet embodies. As captain, he sees his role as more than tactical; it’s about keeping the team grounded and connected.

“As captain and one of the more experienced players, I do my best to be a leader, alongside the other senior members of the squad,” he said. “We don’t have stars like Ronaldo or Messi, so the only way to succeed is to work together as a family and to play united as a team. That’s the message we pass on to the younger players, to always put the team first.”

Moments that shaped a leader

One of the defining moments of Ganet’s career came last month when he scored a crucial equaliser against São Tomé and Príncipe, sparking a comeback that ended 3–2 in Equatorial Guinea’s favour.

“I made it 2–1, and eventually we turned it around and won 3–2 away,” he said. “It was an incredible feeling, hugely important for the team, and it’s given me a lot of confidence ahead of the next two crucial matches.”

That performance reignited belief that qualification might still be possible — belief that Ganet says reminds him of the unforgettable 2015 AFCON on home soil, when Equatorial Guinea reached the semi-finals.

“Back then, the whole country came to a standstill, not only during the matches but for days afterwards,” he said. “No one went to work; everyone was celebrating. And when we returned home, thousands welcomed us at the airport. It was as if we’d won the World Cup three times! So if we were to qualify for the World Cup, I honestly can’t imagine what would happen, but it would be incredible.”

Leading a nation’s dream

Ganet’s leadership now extends beyond the field. In Indonesia, he remains focused on contributing to Persita Tangerang, but his heart lies in guiding Equatorial Guinea to a historic moment.

“My goal is to always give 100%. Persita is a big club in Indonesian football and I want to help the team as much as I can,” he said. “With Equatorial Guinea, the dream is of course to qualify for the World Cup. If it doesn’t happen this time, then definitely in the future.”

It’s that blend of humility and ambition that makes Ganet more than a captain — he’s a symbol of what Equatorial Guinea’s football journey has become: a story of belief, identity, and unity against the odds.

“We also want to keep qualifying regularly for the AFCON,” he added. “A few years ago that felt impossible, but now we believe we can finish in the top four or five and one day even reach the final. That’s my target with the national team.”

As the final whistle of qualification nears, Pablo Ganet’s story stands as proof that dreams can be delayed, but never denied.