Nine African nations reach 2026 world cup knockout stage.

The achievement sets a new record, surpassing the previous best of only two African teams reaching this phase in a single tournament. The record was confirmed after the Democratic Republic of Congo defeated Uzbekistan 3-1, while Algeria secured qualification following an exciting 3-3 draw against Austria on Saturday evening.

Following 17 days of group-stage action, Morocco, South Africa, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cape Verde, Egypt, DR Congo and Algeria have all booked their places in the Round of 32. Tunisia was the only African nation that failed to progress beyond the group stage.

Morocco and South Africa became the first African teams to qualify for the knockout rounds, with South Africa achieving the feat for the first time in its World Cup history. Cape Verde has also enjoyed an impressive debut campaign, finishing second in Group H ahead of Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.

Before this year's tournament, only six African nations had ever reached the World Cup knockout stage, with the highest number qualifying in one edition being two, recorded in both 2014 and 2022. The performances in 2026 have highlighted the growing quality and depth of African football, with Cape Verde and DR Congo emerging as surprise packages.

DR Congo will now face a difficult Round of 32 clash against England, but the team is celebrating a memorable achievement. Striker Fiston Mayele described the qualification as a proud moment for the nation.

"It is a historic day for our country," Mayele said. "This is our first World Cup victory and the first time we have reached the knockout stage. People across Congo are celebrating, and we are proud to represent our nation. We hope to continue this journey."

Mayele scored in the 78th minute after teammate Yoane Wissa had found the net twice, converting a penalty in the 68th minute before adding another goal in stoppage time.

Algeria also secured its place in dramatic fashion. Their match against Austria was level at 2-2 deep into added time before captain Riyad Mahrez scored what appeared to be the winning goal. Austria responded with an equalizer just moments later in the final action of the match, but the result was enough for both teams to qualify.

After receiving the Player of the Match award, Wissa reflected on his country's remarkable journey.

"This is only our second World Cup appearance, 52 years after the first," he said. "We have worked together for four years to reach this tournament. Football is never easy. We drew with Portugal, lost to Colombia, and even fell behind early in this match. We stayed strong and believed in ourselves. Moments like these are special and should be enjoyed."

Wissa believes Africa's outstanding performance at this year's World Cup proves that the continent has a bright future, with young talent continuing to raise the standard.

He added that the success achieved in 2026 should inspire every African nation to believe that bigger achievements are possible on the world stage.

Jacques Roger NSHIMIYIMANA