Africa's challenge at the 2026 FIFA World Cup grew thinner on Tuesday after Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo were knocked out in the Round of 32, reducing the continent's hopes of a deep run in the expanded tournament.
The two exits came within hours of each other and followed earlier eliminations of South Africa and Ivory Coast, leaving Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, Cape Verde and Ghana carrying Africa's remaining ambitions.
DR Congo looked capable of producing another upset when they struck first against England in Atlanta. Their early breakthrough unsettled the European side and briefly raised hopes of another memorable African victory.
That momentum faded after the interval. England captain Harry Kane responded with two well taken goals in the second half to overturn the deficit and seal a 2-1 victory.
Later in Seattle, Senegal's journey came to an end after a gripping 3-2 defeat to Belgium. The Teranga Lions battled throughout an open contest but could not find the equaliser that would have kept their tournament alive.
The defeat closed another chapter for one of Africa's most consistent football nations, whose hopes of reaching the last 16 disappeared in a match filled with attacking football and missed opportunities.
Africa's Attention Turns to Remaining Contenders
Morocco remain the continent's trailblazers after eliminating the Netherlands on penalties following a 1-1 draw to become Africa's first nation in the Round of 16.Now attention shifts to the remaining fixtures.
Algeria face Switzerland on July 2, while Egypt meet Australia, Cape Verde take on Argentina and Ghana play Colombia on July 3.
Victories in those matches would strengthen Africa's presence in the knockout stages. The 48 team tournament began with a record 10 African representatives.
Tunisia exited before the knockout phase, while South Africa, Ivory Coast, DR Congo and Senegal have since followed. For now, Africa's World Cup story continues through five teams, though the margin for error has become painfully small.
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