Africa could be on the verge of rewriting FIFA World Cup history. With the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup 2026 entering its decisive group-stage phase, the continent is enjoying one of its strongest collective performances ever, with several nations still firmly in the race for the knockout rounds.
For the first time in World Cup history, as many as five African teams could qualify for the knockout stage, surpassing the previous record set in 2014 when Algeria, Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire advanced from their groups in Brazil.
As the final round of group matches approaches, Morocco, Egypt, Ghana, Cape Verde and DR Congo have positioned themselves well, while Algeria, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal still retain hopes of extending Africa’s presence in the tournament.
Morocco Leading Africa’s Charge
Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi battles Brazil defender Marquinhos during an intense FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C encounter at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The highly anticipated clash ended in a 1-1 draw as both sides showcased their quality on the global stage. Photo: Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images.
Among Africa’s standout performers, Morocco continue to justify their status as one of the continent’s football powerhouses.
The Atlas Lions opened their campaign with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against tournament favourites Brazil before securing a crucial 1-0 victory over Scotland. Sitting on four points, Morocco are in control of their destiny and are well placed to reach the Round of 32.
Their disciplined performances have reinforced expectations that they could once again emerge as Africa’s deepest challenger following their historic run to the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup.
Egypt Eye Comfortable Qualification
Egypt have also impressed with an unbeaten start to their campaign. After earning a valuable draw against Belgium, the Pharaohs boosted their qualification prospects with a convincing 3-1 victory over New Zealand. The result lifted them to four points and left them needing a positive result against Iran to secure progression.
Led by captain Mohamed Salah, Egypt have combined experience and attacking quality to become one of Africa’s most promising representatives in North America.
Cape Verde Continue Dream Run
One of the biggest surprises of the tournament has been Cape Verde. The island nation has captured global attention after holding Spain to a goalless draw before producing another spirited performance in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Uruguay.
The Blue Sharks remain unbeaten and could qualify for the knockout stage for the first time in their history if they defeat Saudi Arabia in their final group match.
Ghana and DR Congo Keeping African Hopes Alive
Ghana’s campaign remains firmly on track after their opening victory over Panama. The Black Stars subsequently earned a valuable draw against England, leaving them well positioned heading into a decisive clash with Croatia.
Meanwhile, DR Congo continue to show resilience on their return to the world’s biggest football stage. The Leopards earned a creditable 1-1 draw against Portugal and remain in contention despite suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia.
A positive result in their final fixture could still propel the Central African nation into the knockout rounds.
Algeria, Côte d’Ivoire and South Africa Still Fighting
Algeria revived their campaign with a spirited comeback victory over Jordan after initially falling to Argentina. The Desert Foxes remain in the qualification race and will be aiming to build on their renewed momentum.
Côte d’Ivoire also remain alive despite a setback against Germany. The Elephants know that a strong finish could still see them advance.
South Africa face a tougher task after collecting just one point from their opening two matches, but Bafana Bafana have not yet been eliminated and remain mathematically capable of progressing.
Senegal Face Must-Win Situation
Africa’s reigning champions Senegal find themselves under pressure. Defeats in their opening matches have left the Lions of Teranga without a point, but they still retain a path to the knockout stage. Victory against Iraq is essential if they are to keep their hopes alive and avoid an early exit.
A Defining Moment for African Football
The expanded World Cup format has given African nations a greater platform to showcase their growing strength, and the continent has responded with some outstanding performances.
If five teams ultimately reach the knockout rounds, Africa will set a new World Cup record and further strengthen its claim as one of the game’s fastest-rising football regions.
With several decisive matches still to come, millions of fans across the continent will be watching closely as history beckons.
