The African contingent at the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to impress, with nine countries securing places in the Round of 32 after the conclusion of the group stage.
The latest qualifiers are DR Congo and Algeria, who joined South Africa, Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, Ghana, Cape Verde, and Ivory Coast in the knockout phase.
DR Congo Make History
DR Congo reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time after fighting back to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 in their final Group K fixture.
READ ALSO: ‘Partnership Will Drive Football Growth’ — Iloenyosi Dedicates Coaching Workshop To Agha Mba
Uzbekistan struck first through Eldor Shomurodov in the 10th minute, but the Leopards produced a spirited second-half comeback.
Yoane Wissa levelled from the penalty spot in the 68th minute after being fouled inside the box before Fiston Mayele fired DR Congo into the lead 10 minutes later. Wissa completed his brace in stoppage time to seal a famous victory.
The win saw DR Congo finish third in Group K and book a Round of 32 showdown against England.
Algeria Survive Six-Goal Thriller
Algeria also secured passage after an entertaining 3-3 draw with Austria in Group J.
The Desert Foxes twice came from behind, with veteran captain Riyad Mahrez scoring twice, including what looked like a dramatic stoppage-time winner.
However, Sasa Kalajdzic struck in the 96th minute to rescue Austria and ensure both nations advanced.
The result saw Austria finish second in the group to set up a clash with Spain, while Algeria progressed as one of the best third-placed teams and will face Switzerland in the Round of 32.
The nine African nations through to the Round of 32 are:
South Africa
Morocco
Senegal
Egypt
Ghana
Cape Verde
Ivory Coast
DR Congo
Algeria
With nine representatives still in contention, Africa will be aiming for its strongest-ever showing in FIFA World Cup history as the knockout stage gets underway.
Round of 32 Fixtures Involving African Teams
Canada vs South Africa
Netherlands vs Morocco
Belgium vs Senegal
Ivory Coast vs Norway
England vs DR Congo
Argentina vs Cape Verde
Australia vs Egypt
Colombia vs Ghana
Switzerland vs Algeria
