2026 World Cup: two qualify, seven eliminated – Africa’s round of 32 report

Morocco and Egypt reach the round of 16, while the other seven bow out

Africa 04 July 2026 at 05:46

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2026 World Cup: two qualify, seven eliminated – Africa’s round of 32 report

With two teams advancing to the round of 16 and a record nine representatives in the round of 32, Africa’s 2026 World Cup campaign has been rich in lessons.

Nine African sides reached the round of 32 at this 2026 World Cup, an unprecedented record for the continent. While this collective achievement highlights the progress of African football, only two nations managed to secure a spot in the round of 16: Morocco and Egypt.

Canada 1-0 South Africa
Netherlands 1-1 Morocco (3-2 pens)
Norway 2-1 Ivory Coast
England 2-1 DR Congo
Belgium 3-2 Senegal
Switzerland 2-0 Algeria
Colombia 1-0 Ghana
Argentina 3-2 Cape Verde
Egypt 1-1 Australia (4-2 pens)

However, despite the exits, the overall picture remains highly encouraging. Never before had Africa sent so many teams into the knockout stages. What’s more, Egypt return to the round of 16 for the first time since 1934.