World Cup 2026: Morocco are the only Arab and African team in the Round of 16 — with Egypt and Ghana still to play
Following the exits of Algeria, Senegal, Ivory Coast, South Africa and Congo DR, Morocco stand as the only confirmed Arab and African team in the World Cup 2026 Round of 16. Egypt and Ghana can still join them.
As the dust settles on most of the World Cup 2026 Last 32 matches, Morocco stand alone as the only confirmed Arab and African team in the Round of 16 — a significant milestone that carries deep meaning for football across the continent and the Arab world.
Atlas Lions advance the hard way
Morocco's qualification came in typical Lions fashion: held 1-1 by the Netherlands after 90 minutes, they dug deep in the penalty shootout to secure their place in the next round. It is the kind of resilience that has defined this team since their extraordinary World Cup 2022 semi-final run.
Six Arab and African teams eliminated
The continent's other representatives have all been sent home:
- 🇩🇿 Algeria — eliminated by Switzerland 0-2
- 🇸🇳 Senegal — eliminated by Belgium 2-3 (AET)
- 🇨🇮 Ivory Coast — eliminated by Norway 1-2
- 🇿🇦 South Africa — eliminated by Canada 0-1
- 🇨🇩 Congo DR — eliminated by England 1-2
Egypt and Ghana still have a chance
Two Last 32 fixtures could yet expand African representation in the Round of 16: Egypt take on Australia, and Ghana face Colombia. Victories for one or both sides would give the continent company alongside Morocco in the knockout rounds.
Morocco: a blueprint for the continent
What sets Morocco apart is consistency. Since their historic 2022 semi-final, the Atlas Lions have continued to build on that legacy, bringing tactical discipline and mental strength to every big occasion. Their Round of 16 clash with Canada will be another test of that identity.
