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Record Nine African Nations Storm Into FIFA World Cup Knockouts, Marking Historic Rise From Participation To Dominance
24htopnews | June 29, 2026 2:08 PM CST

Nine African nations—Morocco, Egypt, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Cape Verde, Senegal, Ghana, DR Congo and Algeria—have reached the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, with only Tunisia eliminated. The group stage featured major upsets against global giants, highlighting Africa’s rising football strength, long-term investment, and growing global influence through players and passionate fan support.

New York: A record nine African countries have qualified for the FIFA World Cup knockout stage. Of the 10 participating African nations, only Tunisia failed to advance past the group stage—a remarkable achievement for a continent that fielded just five teams at the 2022 World Cup.

Morocco, Egypt, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Cape Verde, Senegal, Ghana, DR Congo, and Algeria have all marched into the Round of 32. This historic feat underscores the rapid growth of African football and proves that the continent's players can consistently go toe-to-toe with the world's elite.

The group stage was packed with giant-killing performances and statement results: 

Morocco held five-time champions Brazil to a stalemate. Ghana secured a thrilling draw against former champions England. DR Congo completely silenced a star-studded Portugal. Cape Verde, the ultimate tournament underdogs, pulled off a shock draw against Spain to become the story of the competition.


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