Morocco’s dramatic progress to the Round of 16 has left three African sides scrambling to ensure the continent is not represented by a single flag in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Atlas Lions, semi-finalists at the last tournament, edged past the Netherlands in a tense Round of 32 tie, drawing 1-1 after extra time before holding their nerve in a penalty shootout. Their victory preserved African interest in the latter stages after a bruising start to the knockouts.

Africa arrived at this expanded World Cup with a record 10 qualifiers and produced one of its best collective group-stage performances. Nine teams advanced to the Round of 32, with only Tunisia falling at the first hurdle, fuelling optimism that the continent could surpass Morocco’s historic semi-final run four years ago.

That optimism has been tempered by early eliminations in the knockouts, placing fresh pressure on Egypt, Cape Verde and Ghana as they prepare for decisive fixtures that will shape the narrative of Africa’s campaign.

Egypt are first on the stage, facing Australia at Dallas Stadium. The Pharaohs, long seen as African giants but with a modest World Cup record, know victory would secure a rare appearance in the last 16 and reinforce their status as one of the continent’s standard-bearers. With a disciplined defence and a talismanic attack, they carry both expectation and the weight of past near-misses.

Later in Miami, Cape Verde confront Argentina in what may be the most daunting assignment of the trio. The island nation has been one of the tournament’s surprise packages, blending organisation with fearless attacking play to reach the knockouts. Now they meet Lionel Messi’s Argentina, a side steeped in World Cup pedigree and widely tipped to challenge for the title.

Ghana complete the African triple-header against Colombia in Kansas City. The Black Stars, renowned for their passionate support and history of bold World Cup performances, face a Colombian team in strong form. For Ghana, a place in the last 16 would revive memories of their deep runs in previous tournaments and extend Africa’s footprint in the competition.

With Morocco already safely through, the outcome of these three matches will decide whether Africa’s record participation translates into genuine depth in the latter stages, or whether the Atlas Lions must again carry the continent’s hopes alone.