3 African countries will be looking to extend the continent’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Friday as Egypt, Cape Verde and Ghana battle for places in the Round of 16.
Morocco are currently the only African side to have progressed to the last 16 after edging the Netherlands in a dramatic Round of 32 encounter. The Atlas Lions held the Dutch to a 1-1 draw after extra time before winning the penalty shootout to book their place.
Africa began the tournament with a record 10 teams following the World Cup’s expansion and enjoyed a remarkable group-stage showing, with nine countries advancing to the knockout rounds. Tunisia were the only African nation eliminated before the Round of 32.
Since the knockout stage began, however, several African teams have bowed out. South Africa lost 1-0 to Canada, Morocco defeated the Netherlands on penalties, Ivory Coast fell 2-1 to Norway, DR Congo suffered a 2-1 defeat to England, Senegal lost 3-2 to Belgium after extra time, while Algeria were beaten 2-0 by Switzerland.
Friday now presents another opportunity for Africa to increase its representation in the Round of 16.
Egypt will open the day’s action against Australia in Dallas, with the Pharaohs hoping to continue what has already become one of their best World Cup campaigns in recent history.
Cape Verde, one of the tournament’s biggest surprise packages, then face a daunting test against Argentina in Miami. The island nation will attempt to upset one of the pre-tournament favourites and secure a historic place in the last 16.
Ghana will round off Africa’s schedule when the Black Stars take on Colombia in Kansas City. Victory would send the four-time African champions into the next round and further boost the continent’s presence in the knockout phase.
By the end of Friday’s fixtures, Africa could have as many as four teams in the Round of 16—or Morocco could remain the continent’s lone representative as the race for World Cup glory intensifies.
