Africa’s hopes of a strong showing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup rest on three nations today, with Egypt, Cape Verde and Ghana all fighting for places in the Round of 16.
So far, Morocco remains the continent’s only team to secure a place in the next round after edging past Netherlands in a dramatic knockout clash.
The Atlas Lions held the Dutch to a 1-1 draw after extra time before sealing victory in a tense penalty shootout, keeping African hopes alive in the tournament.
Africa entered the expanded 2026 World Cup with a record 10 representatives and delivered one of its strongest group-stage performances, with nine teams progressing to the Round of 32. Tunisia was the only side eliminated during the opening phase.
However, the knockout rounds have proved more difficult, with several African teams falling short, leaving Morocco as the sole team already through to the last 16.
Egypt will be first in action against Australia in Dallas. The Pharaohs need victory to book their place in the Round of 16 and continue what is shaping up as one of their most impressive World Cup campaigns.
Later, surprise package Cape Verde faces a daunting test against Argentina in Miami. The island nation has emerged as one of the tournament’s biggest stories and now faces a major challenge against Lionel Messi and his teammates.
The final African side in action is Ghana, who will take on Colombia in Kansas City. The Black Stars face a difficult test against an in-form Colombian side as they aim to extend Africa’s presence in the competition.
Friday’s matches will determine whether Africa sends more teams into the Round of 16 or whether Morocco will continue alone as the continent’s flag bearer in the tournament.
