2026 world cup: African teams ship 16 goals in football world, score seven in opening round -

African teams had a mixed start to the FIFA World Cup after the first round of group matches, shipping 16 goals while scoring seven across 10 fixtures.

The opening round delivered contrasting fortunes for the continent’s representatives, with notable wins, hard-fought draws and heavy defeats shaping the early standings.

The biggest setback came for Tunisia, who shipped five goals in a 5–1 defeat to Sweden, while Senegal also shipped three in a 3–1 loss to France. South Africa were beaten 2–0 by Mexico, and Algeria shipped three in a 3–0 loss to Argentina.

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There were positive moments for African sides as Ivory Coast secured a 1–0 win over Ecuador, while Ghana also recorded a narrow 1–0 victory against Panama.

Morocco earned a credible 1–1 draw against Brazil, Egypt held Belgium to the same scoreline, and Cape Verde frustrated Spain in a goalless draw. DR Congo also picked up a 1–1 draw against Portugal.

Overall, the 10 African teams registered two wins, three draws and five defeats, reflecting a mixed but competitive opening round for the continent.

Attention now turns to the second round of group matches, with South Africa facing Czechia in their next Group A fixture in a crucial encounter for their qualification hopes.

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