THE FUSE

Africa’s challenge at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is entering a decisive stage. Six nations have already been eliminated, leaving only four teams with a chance of extending the continent’s journey.

The tournament began with 10 African representatives. Now, only Morocco, Egypt, Cape Verde, and Ghana remain in contention. Every knockout match from here carries even greater significance.

MOROCCO LEAD AFRICA’S FIFA WORLD CUP HOPES

Morocco continue to lead the way after beating the Netherlands on penalties in the Round of 32. The Atlas Lions will now face Canada for a place in the quarter-finals.

Africa’s numbers were reduced again after Algeria lost 2-0 to Switzerland. It was a disappointing end to a campaign that had shown plenty of promise during the group stage.

Attention now shifts to Egypt, who face Australia at 20:00 tonight. Victory would see them join Morocco in the last 16 and give Africa another major boost.

Cape Verde will then face tournament favourites Argentina at 00:00 on Saturday. A few hours later, Ghana will battle Colombia at 03:30 to complete Africa’s Round of 32 fixtures.

SIX NATIONS HAVE ALREADY EXITED

The tournament has already brought plenty of heartbreak for African supporters.

Tunisia were the first team to bow out after failing to survive the group stage. The Round of 32 then claimed South Africa, Ivory Coast, DR Congo, Senegal, and now Algeria.

Some of those exits were especially painful. South Africa lost narrowly to Canada, while DR Congo surrendered an early lead against England. Senegal also let a two-goal advantage slip before losing to Belgium after extra time.

With Morocco already through, Africa now turns its attention to Egypt, Cape Verde, and Ghana. The next 24 hours will determine whether the continent can send more teams into the Round of 16.