Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo became the latest African teams to exit the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering Round of 32 defeats on July 1, leaving four African nations still in contention for a place in the last 16.
DR Congo’s impressive World Cup campaign ended with a spirited 2-1 defeat to England in Atlanta. The Congolese took an early lead before England captain Harry Kane struck twice in the second half to send the European side into the Round of 16.
Later on July 1, Senegal bowed out after a thrilling 3-2 loss to Belgium in Seattle, ending the Teranga Lions’ hopes of progressing further in the tournament.
Earlier in the Round of 32, South Africa lost 1-0 to Canada, while Ivory Coast suffered a 2-1 defeat to Norway. Morocco, however, became Africa’s first team to reach the Round of 16 after eliminating the Netherlands in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw.
Four African representatives remain in the tournament.
Algeria will face Switzerland on July 2, while Egypt take on Australia, Cape Verde meet Argentina, and Ghana play Colombia on July 3 in their Round of 32 ties. Victories for those teams would see them join Morocco in the last 16.
The expanded 48-team World Cup initially featured 10 African nations, the continent’s largest-ever representation at the tournament.
With five teams already eliminated—South Africa, Ivory Coast, DR Congo, Senegal and Tunisia before the knockout stage—Africa’s hopes now rest on Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, Cape Verde and Ghana.
