Three African nations will be fighting to keep the continent’s hopes alive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Friday, with Egypt, Cape Verde and Ghana all chasing places in the Round of 16.

So far, Morocco remains the only African team to secure passage to the next stage.

The Atlas Lions booked their spot after a dramatic victory over the Netherlands, holding the Europeans to a 1-1 draw after extra time before prevailing in a penalty shootout.

Africa arrived at the expanded 2026 World Cup with a record 10 representatives and enjoyed one of its strongest group-stage performances, with nine nations advancing to the Round of 32.

Tunisia was the continent’s only casualty in the opening phase.