2026 World Cup: a historic group stage for Africa

Morocco, above the rest

Seven points, two wins, a prestigious draw against Brazil (1-1). The Atlas Lions delivered the best group stage by an African nation at this World Cup. Behind the consistency of their results is a team that controls key moments, with decisive individuals like Saibari, Hakimi, and El Khannouss. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi has confirmed that Morocco, semi-finalist in the previous edition, is no longer an underdog but an established force in world football. They face the Netherlands in the round of 32.

Ivory Coast, solid after stumbling

Six points from three matches, with a defeat against Germany (1-2) handled calmly on the second matchday. The victory over Ecuador in the opening match and then over Curaçao showed a team capable of responding under pressure. The Elephants finished second in Group E and will face Norway on June 30. For their first-ever qualification for the second round, Emerse Faé's men have shown potential that could make them a real surprise in this World Cup.

South Africa, surprise of the group stage

Beaten by Mexico in the opener (0-2), Bafana Bafana held the Czech Republic (1-1) before securing a win against South Korea (1-0) thanks to a goal by Thapelo Maseko. A first in the history of South Africa’s national team at a World Cup. They kick off this Sunday against Canada in Los Angeles.

Cape Verde, the unprecedented adventure

Three draws, zero defeats, qualification earned through collective effort. For their first ever World Cup appearance, the Blue Sharks held Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia to a draw. A heroic run for this newcomer. They will take on reigning world champions Argentina in their first ever round of 32. Goalkeeper Vozinha has become the face of this journey.

Egypt, solid without spark

A draw against Belgium (1-1), a historic victory against New Zealand (3-1), Egypt’s first-ever win at a World Cup, then another draw against Iran (1-1). Four points, second place in Group G, facing Australia. The Pharaohs move forward quietly, carried by a still-decisive Mohamed Salah.

DR Congo, the revelation

Their opener against Portugal (1-1) already sent a strong message. Beaten by Colombia in a close match (0-1), Sébastien Desabre's Leopards turned things around against Uzbekistan (3-1) to clinch historic qualification, DR Congo's first time reaching the knockout stage of a World Cup. They will play England in the next round. A tough draw, but this team has shown they are not just there to make up the numbers.

Ghana, pragmatic and qualified

The Black Stars managed Group L with discipline. An opening win over Panama (1-0), a solid draw against England (0-0), a defeat without consequence against Croatia (1-2). Four points, third in the group, they continue their World Cup journey with a solid defense.

Senegal, a path of hardship followed by a resurrection

Two consecutive defeats against France (1-3) and Norway (2-3) had plunged the Lions into an almost inextricable situation. The response against Iraq (5-0) was up to the urgency. Thanks to this decisive goal difference and favorable results in other groups, the African champions grabbed a spot among the best eight third-placed teams and will face Belgium in the round of 32. Qualification does not erase the questions raised by the six goals conceded in two matches nor the dysfunctions surrounding their preparation.

Algeria, a roller-coaster scenario

Crushed by Argentina in the opener (0-3), the Fennecs showed up in moments. A deserved win over Jordan (2-1), then an epic final match against Austria ending 3-3, in which Riyad Mahrez thought he had given his team victory in the 90+3 before an Austrian equalizer in stoppage time. Both teams go through. Algeria will face Switzerland.

Tunisia, total collapse

Three defeats, twelve goals conceded, two scored. A coach, Sabri Lamouchi, dismissed mid-competition and an overall record with no sugar-coating. Tunisia leaves the World Cup with no points, no win, and a considerable rebuilding job ahead.