Three African Teams Through to World Cup Round of 32

Three African nations have officially secured qualification for the Round of 32 at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, underlining the continent’s growing competitiveness at the expanded global tournament.

Morocco, South Africa and Côte d’Ivoire have all confirmed their places in the knockout stage after impressive performances in the group phase, while six other African representatives remain in contention ahead of their final group matches.

Morocco progressed after finishing second in Group C with seven points, following a thrilling 4-2 victory over Haiti in their final group fixture. The Atlas Lions will now face Group F winners the Netherlands in the Round of 32 on June 29 as they seek to build on their recent World Cup successes.

South Africa also made history by qualifying for the knockout stage for the first time. After suffering a 2-0 defeat to co-hosts Mexico in their opening match, Bafana Bafana recovered brilliantly with a draw against Czechia before defeating South Korea 1-0 to finish second in Group A. They will now take on fellow co-hosts Canada in the next round on June 28.

Côte d’Ivoire secured progression after finishing second in Group E, recording crucial victories over Ecuador and Curaçao. The Elephants are scheduled to face the runners-up from Group I in the Round of 32 on June 30.

Several other African teams are still fighting for qualification. Egypt currently lead Group G with four points from two matches, while Ghana occupy second place in Group L on goal difference behind England, with both teams on four points.

Cabo Verde remain in contention in Group H with two points, level with Uruguay but behind on goal difference, while Algeria sit third in Group J with three points, the same total as Austria.

Senegal and DR Congo have missed out on automatic qualification but could still progress depending on results elsewhere and the tournament’s best third-placed teams ranking.

Elsewhere, teams already through to the Round of 32 include Mexico, the United States, Germany, Argentina, France, Norway, Colombia, Switzerland, Canada, Brazil, the Netherlands, Japan, Australia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ecuador and Sweden.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first edition featuring 48 teams, with the top two teams from each of the 12 groups and the eight best third-placed teams advancing to the newly introduced Round of 32.