- 2026 FIFA World Cup: Africa Eyes Record-Breaking FIFA World Cup 2026 as Five Nations Chase Historic Knockout Berths
Africa stands on the brink of a historic achievement at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with a record number of nations still in contention to reach the knockout stages of the expanded tournament.
With one round of group matches remaining for most teams, the continent could surpass its previous best collective performance at the World Cup, achieved in 2014 when three African nations advanced beyond the group stage. Twelve years later, as many as five African teams could secure places in the Round of 32, highlighting the growing strength and competitiveness of African football on the global stage.
Leading Africa’s charge are Morocco, Egypt, Ghana, Cape Verde and DR Congo, all of whom remain firmly in the race for qualification. Meanwhile, Algeria, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal are still mathematically alive as they head into the decisive final round of group fixtures.
Morocco have emerged as one of Africa’s standout performers. Under coach Mohamed Ouahbi, the Atlas Lions opened their campaign with an impressive 1-1 draw against Brazil before edging Scotland 1-0. Their four-point haul has placed them in a commanding position at the top of Group C and within touching distance of the knockout rounds.
Egypt have also impressed. The Pharaohs followed up a draw against Belgium with a memorable 3-1 victory over New Zealand, ending a 92-year wait for a World Cup win. Sitting on four points, they head into a crucial final group match against Iran knowing victory would guarantee progression.
One of the tournament’s most inspiring stories has been Cape Verde’s remarkable campaign. The Blue Sharks stunned observers by holding Spain to a goalless draw before battling to a thrilling 2-2 stalemate against Uruguay. A win over Saudi Arabia would secure the island nation’s first-ever appearance in the World Cup knockout stage.
DR Congo have shown tremendous resilience on their return to football’s biggest stage. The Leopards earned a valuable 1-1 draw against Portugal, with striker Yoane Wissa playing a key role, and remain in contention heading into their final group fixtures.
Ghana’s campaign has also gathered momentum. The Black Stars opened with a vital victory over Panama and now face a blockbuster showdown against England. A positive result could place Ghana on the verge of qualification before their final group match against Croatia.
Elsewhere, Algeria reignited their hopes with a spirited comeback win over Jordan after suffering defeat to Argentina in their opening game. South Africa remain in the hunt following a draw against Czechia after losing to hosts Mexico.
Côte d’Ivoire, despite a setback against Germany, still control their own destiny, while Senegal – quarter-finalists in 2002 and Round of 16 participants in 2022 — can yet keep Africa’s hopes alive if they secure victory over Iraq in their final group match.
Tunisia’s campaign has already come to an end, making them the only African representative eliminated before the final round of group matches.
