Ten African nations managed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, and several have made the step up in North America. From resilient displays against supposed tournament favourites to dominant group-stage wins, there’s been plenty to like about several competitors from the continent.

The Round of 32 now beckons for many of them, as they look to make a splash in the knockouts. As the next stage of the World Cup draws closer, here is a closer look at three teams who have impressed so far. 

South Africa

Not many supporters gave South Africa much of a chance of qualifying from Group A ahead of the tournament. And even fewer thought they would reach the knockouts after their disappointing loss to Mexico in the opening match of the World Cup.

But Hugo Broos’ team defied bookmakers and expectations, securing a draw against Czechia before a remarkable 1-0 win against South Korea. That ensured Bafana Bafana went through as runners-up, which means they will play Canada in the Round of 32.

South Africa will be confident of a result against the tournament hosts, as they look to continue shocking the football world. Supporters can see how the team are expected to fare by checking out betting tips on goal.com

Morocco

As the highest-ranked African nation in the world, there was a lot of expectation surrounding Morocco. But the AFCON winners have risen to the occasion, despite being placed in a tough group with Brazil.

In their match against the Selecao, the Atlas Lions held their own, before they managed to minimise Scotland’s attacking threat. Even after they went behind against Haiti, Morocco still rallied and went on to win 4-2.

Thanks to excellent performances from Achraf Hakimi, Ismael Saibari, and Ayyoub Bouaddi, they finished level on points with Brazil, only dropping to second place because of goal difference. They will still be fancied against most opponents, as they look to match or surpass their historic run to the semi-finals in 2022. 

Ghana

Missing out on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was a disaster, one which meant expectations for the Black Stars were relatively low heading into the World Cup. Nevertheless, everything has gone according to plan so far.

Ghana might not have been at their best against Panama, but they still found a way to win. And they put in a dogged display against England, widely considered to be contenders for the trophy this summer, and could even have picked up a second victory had they not squandered chances against the Three Lions.

They will be guaranteed a place in the Round of 32 if they avoid defeat, which means potential games against Portugal or Colombia might lie in store for Carlos Queiroz’s side. However, they have proven that they can frustrate opponents, and might yet be able to upset the odds in the knockouts.