South Africa has qualified for the knockout stage of the World Cup 2026 after defeating South Korea 1-0, with Thapelo Maseko scoring the decisive goal in the second half. This victory allowed South Africa to secure second place in Group A with four points, joining another African country in the Round of 32, according to Daily Post (NG).

At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Morocco and Egypt have successfully advanced to the Round of 16, becoming two of the ten African nations competing in the tournament. They qualified from the initial round of 32 after completing the group stages, marking a significant achievement for African representation in the event.

Morocco and Egypt are the last two African nations remaining in the FIFA World Cup, following the elimination of Ghana and Cape Verde in the Round of 32. Their exits mark a disappointing moment for African teams in the tournament, as they were unable to advance further.

Bosnia and Herzegovina, Morocco, Brazil, Switzerland, Canada, and South Africa have qualified for the Round of 32 stage at the FIFA World Cup 2026. They join previously qualified teams Colombia, Norway, France, Argentina, Mexico, Germany, and the USA. This announcement follows the conclusion of the final group game fixtures in Group A.

Despite a record nine African teams reaching the World Cup Round of 32, seven were eliminated, highlighting the challenges faced by African teams in advancing in the tournament. The reasons behind the frequent stalling of African World Cup hopes are explored, particularly in light of recent performances, including those of Cape Verde.

Morocco has made history by becoming the first African team to qualify for the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup. The Atlas Lions secured their spot after defeating Haiti 4-2, despite an early setback from an own goal by Yassine Bounou. Achraf Hakimi equalized for Morocco, and the team went on to win the match.