Africa's expanded presence at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is continuing to make headlines, with several of the continent's representatives securing places in the Round of 32 as the group stage draws to a close.
For the first time in World Cup history, Africa was allocated more direct qualification slots following FIFA's expansion of the tournament from 32 to 48 teams. Ten African nations qualified for the finals, giving the continent its largest-ever representation on football's biggest stage.
Among those celebrating qualification for the knockout phase are Morocco, South Africa and Ivory Coast, while Senegal remains in action on Friday hoping to join them.
"Africa's strongest-ever World Cup representation is beginning to translate into success on the pitch."
Ivory Coast seal Round of 32 place
Thursday's biggest African success belonged to Ivory Coast, who defeated Curaçao 2-0 to secure their place in the Round of 32.
The result marked another milestone for the West African nation, which returned to the FIFA World Cup after missing the previous two editions.
In addition on Thursday's and Friday morning World Cup results, Sweeden 0-0 Japan ,Germany was defeated 2-1 by Ecuador ,Netherlands 3-1 Tunisia ,Paraguay 0-0 Australia , Turkey 3-2 USA.
Today's focus turns to Senegal
Attention now shifts to Friday's fixtures, where Senegal face Iraq in a crucial Group I encounter.
Other matches scheduled for Friday include: France vs Norway , Senegal vs Iraq later Saturday morning ,Uruguay vs Spain , Cape Verde Vs Saudi Arabia.
