2026 World Cup: Egypt, Ghana, Cape Verde Battle to Join Morocco in Round of 16 -

Three African nations—Egypt, Ghana, and Cape Verde—are set for crucial encounters on Friday as they aim to secure places in the Round of 16 at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup

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Morocco currently stands as the only African team to have progressed to the next stage, following a dramatic victory over the Netherlands.

The Atlas Lions held their European opponents to a 1-1 draw after extra time before sealing qualification through a penalty shootout.

Africa entered the expanded tournament with a record 10 teams and delivered an impressive group-stage performance, with nine countries advancing to the Round of 32.

Tunisia was the only side eliminated at that stage. However, the knockout phase has proven more challenging, leaving Morocco as the continent’s sole representative in the Round of 16 so far.

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Egypt will kick off Friday’s fixtures as they face Australia in Dallas. A victory for the Pharaohs would see them advance and mark one of their most notable World Cup runs in recent history.

Cape Verde, one of the surprise packages of the tournament, will take on tournament favourites Argentina in Miami. The island nation faces a stern test against Lionel Messi’s side as they seek to continue their fairytale campaign.

Later, Ghana will battle Colombia in Kansas City. The Black Stars come up against an in-form Colombian side, with hopes of progressing and keeping Africa’s presence alive in the competition.

Friday’s matches will ultimately determine whether more African teams will join Morocco in the Round of 16 or if the Atlas Lions will remain the continent’s lone flagbearer in the tournament.