NEW DELHI: Africa has achieved its best-ever performance at a FIFA World Cup, with nine of its 10 teams reaching the Round of 32 at the 2026 tournament. It is the first time so many African nations have qualified for the knockout stage. The previous record was just two teams, set at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil when Algeria and Nigeria progressed. The only African team to miss out this time was Tunisia.

Nine nations book knockout places

After 17 days of group-stage action, Morocco, South Africa, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Egypt, Algeria, DR Congo and Cabo Verde all secured places in the Round of 32.The remarkable achievement highlights the growing strength of African football on the world stage.

Algeria survive late drama

Algeria sealed qualification after a dramatic 3-3 draw against Austria.The match looked to be heading Algeria’s way when captain Riyad Mahrez scored late in stoppage time to make it 3-2. However, Austria equalised with almost the final kick of the game.The draw was enough for both teams to qualify for the knockout stage.

DR Congo create history

DR Congo reached the knockout rounds for the first time after coming from behind to beat Uzbekistan 3-1.Eldor Shomurodov gave Uzbekistan an early lead, but DR Congo fought back in the second half.Yoane Wissa equalised from the penalty spot before Fiston Mayele put his team ahead. Wissa then added another goal in stoppage time to complete the comeback.The victory was also DR Congo’s first-ever World Cup win. They will now face England in the Round of 32.

Cabo Verde continue fairytale run

World Cup debutants Cabo Verde also made history by reaching the knockout stage without winning a single group match.The Blue Sharks drew all three of their games, including impressive results against Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.They became the first team since Chile at the 1998 World Cup to progress from the group stage without winning a match.Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha also entered the record books. At the age of 40, he became only the third goalkeeper in World Cup history, after Peter Shilton and Dino Zoff, to keep multiple clean sheets after turning 40.

Morocco continue to impress

Morocco, who became the first African team to reach a World Cup semi-final at Qatar 2022, have once again shown their quality.They drew 1-1 with Brazil during the group stage and head into the knockout rounds as one of the tournament’s strongest teams.