Africa’s representation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has taken another hit after Ivory Coast became the second team from the continent to be eliminated in the Round of 32.
The Elephants were beaten 2-1 by Norway on Tuesday, ending their campaign after a spirited run through the group stage. Norway capitalised on their chances to progress, while Ivory Coast were unable to find a late equaliser despite pressing in the closing stages.
“Ivory Coast’s defeat means Africa has now lost two representatives in the Round of 32.”
Historic campaign meets knockout reality
The expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup gave Africa its strongest-ever representation in the knockout stages, with nine teams reaching the Round of 32.
Although the continent has already suffered two eliminations, several nations remain in contention to extend Africa’s impressive run.
Ivory Coast’s exit will particularly disappoint supporters after the West Africans produced encouraging performances during the group phase to earn a place in the knockout rounds. However, Norway proved clinical when it mattered most.
Morocco keeps Africa’s hopes alive.
There was better news for the continent on Monday when Morocco secured a place in the Round of 16 after defeating the Netherlands in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw.
The Atlas Lions once again demonstrated their resilience under pressure, becoming the first African nation to book a place in the next round. Their qualification has boosted hopes that Africa can produce another deep World Cup run after Morocco’s historic semi-final appearance in Qatar four years earlier.
“Morocco became the first African side to reach the Round of 16 at this year’s tournament.”
Results from the latest Round of 32 matches
The latest knockout fixtures have produced several notable results.
Tuesday’s results
- Norway 2-1 Ivory Coast
- France 3-0 Sweden
Early Wednesday result
- Mexico 2-0 Ecuador
Earlier in the Round of 32, Canada defeated South Africa 1-0, Brazil overcame Japan 2-1, while Paraguay stunned Germany on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
Attention turns to Africa’s remaining contenders.
Focus now shifts to the African teams still in action as they seek to keep the continent’s hopes alive.
The key fixtures involving African nations are:
- DR Congo vs England – Wednesday.
- Senegal vs Belgium – Wednesday.
- Algeria vs Switzerland – Thursday.
- Egypt vs Australia – Friday.
- Cape Verde vs Argentina – Friday.
- Ghana vs Colombia – Friday.
The outcomes of these matches will determine how many African teams remain in the competition heading into the Round of 16.
