World Cup 2026: CAF Reacts as Two African Countries Qualify for Round of 16

CAF celebrated Morocco and Egypt after both nations reached the World Cup Round of 16, expressing confidence ahead of their knockout clashes.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has celebrated the qualification of Morocco and Egypt for the Round of 16 at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The continental football governing body expressed delight after the two North African nations secured places in the next stage of the tournament, keeping Africa’s hopes alive in the competition.

Morocco advanced after eliminating the Netherlands in the Round of 32, while Egypt booked their place in the last 16 by defeating Australia.

The victories ensured that both countries progressed to the knockout phase after impressive performances against their respective opponents.

Morocco will now face Canada in the Round of 16, while Egypt are set for a difficult encounter against defending champions Argentina as they bid for places in the quarter-finals.

Reacting to the achievement, CAF took to its official X account to congratulate both teams and express confidence in their ability to continue flying Africa’s flag at the tournament.

“Africa marches on. Morocco and Egypt are ready for their Round of 16 clashes,” CAF posted.

The qualification of Morocco and Egypt provides a major boost for African football after several other representatives exited the competition in the Round of 32.

Among the African nations already eliminated are Senegal, Ivory Coast, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cape Verde and Tunisia.

Morocco, who reached the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar to become the first African nation to achieve the feat, are hoping to make another deep run in the expanded 2026 tournament.

Egypt, meanwhile, are seeking to reach the quarter-finals of the World Cup for the first time in their history.

Both teams will carry Africa’s hopes into the next round as they prepare for challenging fixtures against Canada and Argentina.

Football fans across the continent have continued to rally behind the two surviving African representatives, hoping they can extend their campaigns and make further history at the tournament.

The Round of 16 matches are expected to attract significant attention as Morocco and Egypt attempt to overcome strong opposition and secure places among the final eight teams competing for the world title.