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Senegal and Democratic Republic of the Congo became the latest African nations to exit the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering Round of 32 defeats on Wednesday, July 1, leaving four African teams still battling for places in the last 16.
DR Congo’s impressive World Cup campaign came to an end after a spirited 2-1 defeat to England in Atlanta. The Congolese stunned their opponents with an early goal, but England captain Harry Kane scored twice in the second half to complete the comeback and send the Three Lions into the Round of 16.
Later in the day, Senegal’s hopes of advancing were dashed following a dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat to Belgium in Seattle. The Teranga Lions surrendered a two-goal advantage as Belgium mounted a remarkable late comeback to secure their place in the next round.
Earlier in the knockout stage, South Africa were eliminated after a 1-0 loss to Canada, while Ivory Coast exited following a 2-1 defeat to Norway. Morocco, however, became Africa’s first representative to reach the Round of 16 after eliminating Netherlands in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw.
Four African teams remain in contention for a place in the Round of 16.
Algeria will face Switzerland on July 2, while Egypt take on Australia, Cape Verde meet Argentina, and Ghana face Colombia on July 3. Victories in those fixtures would see them join Morocco in the last 16.
The expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup featured a record 10 African representatives, marking the continent’s largest-ever participation at the global tournament.
Source: citinews
