Category: Football Africa

DR Congo could provide a stern test for England in Atlanta
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

DR Congo could provide a stern test for England in Atlanta

Starting their World Cup knockout campaign on Wednesday night against DR Congo at the Atlanta stadium, Thomas Tuchel’s England side may face a challenge. A victory for either side will guarantee a spot among the 16 against Mexico.

In a competition that begged many issues, Thomas Tuchel’s team came out on top Group L. Starting with a 4-2 win over Croatia, they then had a goalless draw with Ghana and finished with a shaky 2-0 victory over Panama.

Before this tournament, the Three Lions had fierce competition from African teams and so know not to underestimate DR Congo. The group-placed Congolese team drew with Portugal, played strongly against Colombia, and won 3–1 against Uzbekistan. This game is the first time these two teams will face off.

Head Coach Sébastien Desabre probably will go back to the 5-3-2 lineup he used in the group stage; for the vital game against Uzbekistan, he had a back four.

Leading the attack together with Cédric Bakambu is Yoane Wissa, who scored three of DR Congo’s four group stage goals. Four defenders have close relationships to the Premier League: Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, Chancel Mbemba, and Arthur Masuaku. From Sunderland, Noah Sadiki is a midfielder. Desabre’s team has no reported injury problems.

England and DR Congo’s first meeting 

Fifty-two years after their debut in 1974, when the nation was known as Zaire, the Leopards are competing in their second World Cup ever.

Thanks to a goal by Burnley’s Axel Tuanzebe, they came behind Senegal in their qualification group but progressed after beating Nigeria on penalties and 1-0 in extra time.

Since 2022, Sébastien Desabre has served as the head coach. Coaching teams in Uganda, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon, he has African football knowledge. In 2023, he guided DR Congo to the African Cup of Nations semi-finals.

With Cedric Bakambu’s four qualifying goals helping him, Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa will provide a major menace. Tuanzebe, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and captain Chancel Mbemba will offer excellent protection on defence.

“It ramps up now, doesn’t it? It’s a proper phase of football. One game at a time. There are lads who have won Champions Leagues, lads who have been in youth tournaments with England. Everyone knows the pressure of it and I think that is where you will see us thrive.” Jordan Pickford, England goalkeeper

“England next is gonna be a different game, a tough, tough game against top players, top opponents. We need to enjoy this type of game. We deserve to play against England, one of the best teams in the world, so I’m looking forward to what’s coming next.“ Yoane Wissa, DR Congo striker

Predicted lineups:

England’s predicted team (4-2-3-1 formation): Pickford; Spence, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Rashford; Kane.

DR Congo’s predicted team (5-3-2 formation): Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Kapuadi, Masuaku; Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Kayembe; Bakambu, Wissa.

England v Congo DR

Round of 32

Wednesday, 1 July | Atlanta Stadium

Kick-off time

12:00 (Atlanta) | 17:00 (London) | 17:00 (Kinshasa)

Amad Diallo proud of Côte d'Ivoire's achievement despite elimination
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Amad Diallo proud of Côte d’Ivoire’s achievement despite elimination

Rising elephants star Amad Diallo discusses Côte d’Ivoire’s incredible FIFA World Cup 2026 trip and what it means to score in their tight 2-1 defeat against Norway at the Dallas Stadium on Tuesday.

Though their ambition at the FIFA World Cup 2026™ is gone, Côte d’Ivoire leaves North America with dignity. This was their fourth World Cup appearance, and this time they made history by making the knockout stage for the first time.

At Dallas Stadium, they lost 2-1 to Norway in the Round of 32, but they kept supporters entertained along the way. Despite the letdown, Amad Diallo valued what the developing Côte d’Ivoire side achieved.

Diallo told FIFA, “We are really proud of what we achieved.” The youngest team in this tournament, we can be proud. This is a success for us since we never advanced from the group stage in our last three competitions.

Entering in the second half, Diallo had an instant effect. After a fast one-two with Nicolas Pépé, he scored a brilliant goal in the 74th minute to tie the score.

Following his group stage goal versus Ecuador, which gave the 23-year-old some relief, Diallo scored his second World Cup goal.

“Scoring that goal is a great relief; it’s a dream come true,” Diallo added. “Playing on the grandest stage has always been my goal; therefore getting this goal was remarkable. Losing would still feel like a win to us, even if it happened.

Morocco stun the Netherlands after a penalty shootout to reach the last 16
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mohamed Salah faces race to be fit for Egypt’s last-32 tie

Egypt’s captain, Mohamed Salah, is doubtful for Friday’s World Cup match against Australia in Dallas due to a hamstring injury. He has scored 68 goals in 119 games for Egypt.

Salah was taken off the field during Egypt’s 1-1 draw with Iran. Team doctor Mohamed Abou said Salah felt pain, and scans showed he has a hamstring strain.

The Egyptian Football Association stated that Salah has started treatment but did not say whether he will be ready to play against Australia in Dallas on July 3 at 19:00 BST.

“I spoke with Salah, and it seems, God willing, the injury is not serious,” said Egypt coach Hossam Hassan after the Iran match. “He told me he thinks it will be fine.”

Salah previously missed three weeks due to a hamstring issue in late April but returned to play in Liverpool’s final two matches of the season.

During this World Cup, Salah has scored once and provided two assists, helping Egypt secure second place in Group G.

Morocco stun the Netherlands after a penalty shootout to reach the last 16
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco stun the Netherlands after a penalty shootout to reach the last 16

Following a 1-1 tie, Morocco defeated the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16. Their triumph would not have been possible without Yassine Bounou.

Cody Gakpo’s 72nd-minute goal gave the Netherlands the lead first, but Issa Diop tied it with a header in stoppage time, sending the game into overtime.

Morocco converted three penalties in the shootout but missed two, and Bounou saved a crucial one from Justin Kluivert.

Having defeated South Africa 1-0, Canada will now play Morocco in the following round. This win highlights Morocco as a World Cup powerhouse.

The game started sluggishly, but Morocco grew more active. Early opportunities for Hakimi were saved, including a strong header from Nael El Aynaoui. The Netherlands battled to generate opportunities until Gakpo scored against the run of play.

Morocco persisted and used changes that changed the flow of the game. Diop scored the equaliser in stoppage time to set off celebrations.

Following a 1-1 tie, Morocco defeated the Netherlands 3-2 in a penalty shootout to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16. Their triumph depended much on Yassine Bounou.

Though Cody Gakpo’s goal in the 72nd minute gave the Netherlands the lead, Issa Diop equalised for Morocco with a header in stoppage time, forcing the game into extra time.

Morocco made three penalties in the shootout, but Bounou stopped a crucial penalty from Justin Kluivert, even if two were missed. Canada defeated South Africa 1-0 and will now play Morocco in the next round.

This victory highlights Morocco’s World Cup prowess as a formidable team. Though the game began sluggishly, Morocco got more active. Early opportunities for Hakimi were saved, including a strong header from Nael El Aynaoui.

The Netherlands struggled to create opportunities until Gakpo scored against the run of play. Morocco persisted and made game-changing substitutions. Diop tied the score in stoppage time, setting off festivities.

Morocco had chances during extra time but couldn’t convert; therefore, they went to penalties. Though Rahimi and Talbi scored, El Aynaoui missed Morocco’s first penalty.

Bounou’s save and Saibari’s perfect penalty helped Morocco advance to the next round.

Achraf Hakimi calls for discipline ahead of the Netherlands
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Achraf Hakimi emphasises discipline ahead of the Netherlands clash

Morocco’s skipper Achraf Hakimi is encouraging his squad to maintain attention and discipline for their crucial Round of 32 FIFA World Cup game against the Netherlands at the Monterrey Stadium on Monday night. 

Playing for Paris Saint-Germain, Hakimi knows Morocco is up against a good Dutch squad. He stresses that little details will determine the result of the game.

Hakimi told ABtalks that “it will be a difficult game against the Netherlands. Their calibre and players are well-known to everybody. The captain remarked that there isn’t much room for mistakes in knockout football. He thinks game-long focus will be essential.

Hakimi’s remarks suggest Morocco honours the Netherlands but is hopeful going into this crucial game. Though they had a fantastic group-stage record, he underlined that prior results against the Dutch do not count.

The squad is concentrating on sound defence and attacking effectiveness. One of the tournament’s top players, Hakimi, is anticipated to significantly impact defence and attack by providing speed and assistance from his right-back position.

Hakimi makes it obvious that Morocco honours the Netherlands, but the game will rely on focus, discipline, and little details instead of history or reputation.

Canada reach FIFA World Cup last 16 with last-gasp winner over South Africa in Los Angeles
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Canada book World Cup last-16 spot with last-gasp winner over South Africa in Los Angeles

Canada secured their place in the World Cup’s last 16 with a stunning last-gasp 1-0 victory over South Africa! Stephen Eustaquio scored a dramatic goal in stoppage time, giving Canada the victory they so desperately needed.

Both sides showed excellent talent and drive, making the game very close. Canada, however, always produced more scoring chances across the game.

Eustaquio rose to the occasion when the situation called for a standout moment, firing a strong shot that guaranteed the team’s victory just as the game was about to end.

This game was a historic event as neither Canada nor South Africa had ever made it to the tournament’s knockout rounds.

With this victory, Canada can now look forward to finishing their World Cup run against either Morocco or the Netherlands in the following round.

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe Hails Nine African Teams in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe Hails Nine African Teams in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32

Africa recored 90% of 100 from the World Cup 2026 group stage as nine of ten teams made the last 32 of the USA, Canada, and Mexico showcase

“The hard work and investments in youth football development, coaching, professional football leagues and football infrastructure in each of CAF’s 54 Member Associations and in the CAF Competitions are bearing fruit, Dr Motsepe vehemently noted.

“I want to congratulate the National Teams and coaching staff of Algeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and South Africa for qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Round of 32.

They have made their countries and the 1.6 billion people in Africa and in the Diaspora proud. The achievements of these nine teams show that African football is becoming more competitive and recognized worldwide.

The hard work put into developing youth football, coaching, professional leagues, and infrastructure in each of the 54 CAF Member Associations is paying off.

New governance and financial practices have attracted sponsors and partners, helping the growth of African football. I also congratulate the 9 CAF Member Association Presidents and their teams and thank the African Governments for their support of these Associations.

CAF wishes all nine teams the best as they compete in the FIFA World Cup 2026™, and we believe they will continue to make their countries and Africa proud.”

South Africa face co-host Canada after reaching the World Cup Round of 32 for the first time ever
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa face co-host Canada after reaching their first World Cup Round of 32

For the first time, South Africa has advanced to the knockout rounds of the World Cup. In their last three appearances, the Bafana Bafana were eliminated during the group stage.

Sixteen years ago, Siphiwe Tshabalala’s first goal against Mexico was hailed by a pundit as a goal for all of Africa. But it turned out to be a misplaced hope.

Though they tied Mexico 1-1 and defeated France in their final game, the team was ousted on goal difference. South Africa missed a fantastic chance as first World Cup host to not make it from the group stage.

South African football has suffered since the 2010 competition. Cape Town writer Mark Gleeson said that domestic football has been a little bit sluggish following 2010, particularly given the economic crisis. He pointed out that regional football lacks sponsors and readily available cash.

In these challenging times, South Africa returned to the World Cup this year after missing the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in 2012, 2017, and 2021. But their national team and local football are both exhibiting signs of growth.

Mamelodi Sundowns took home the African club championship in 2016 and, following second place last year, earned their second continental title in May.

Gleeson remarked that the country has greatly benefited from the national team’s World Cup qualification and Sundowns’ victory in the African Champions League. Perhaps 16 years after it should have been, he hopes this signals a new beginning for South African football.

Canada is the only co-host of the World Cup that will compete in a knockout round match outside of its own borders. While the United States will take on Bosnia and Herzegovina in San Francisco and Mexico will go up against a third-place team at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Jesse Marsch’s team must journey to California to play at SoFi Stadium.

South Africa vs. Canada

Sunday, June 28 | Inglewood, California | Los Angeles Stadium

  • Confederation: CAF

  • Best World Cup: Group stage (1998, 2002, 2010)

  • Last World Cup: 2010 (Group stage)

  • First World Cup: 1998 (Group stage)

  • World Cup appearances: 4 (1998, 2002, 2010, 2026)

  • Current run of successive qualifications: One

  • World Cup hosts: 2010 (Group stage)

  • Overall World Cup record: P9 W2 D4 L3 F11 A16

Cape Verde becomes the smallest nation to reach the World Cup knockouts.
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Cape Verde becomes the smallest nation to reach the World Cup knockouts

Cape Verde’s amazing run at their first World Cup is still ongoing. Following a goalless draw with Saudi Arabia in its group stage on Friday, the island nation off Africa’s west coast became the least-populated nation ever to advance to the knockout rounds of a men’s World Cup.

By holding pre-tournament favorite Spain to a goalless draw in their first match, the tournament newcomers surprised one of the World Cup’s biggest upsets. They followed that with a 2-2 tie with Uruguay, when they scored their first World Cup goals ever.

Saturday’s loss to Spain dashed Uruguay’s hopes of moving on to the group stage along with Saudi Arabia.

For Cape Verde, defending champions Argentina await in a Round of 32 match in Miami Gardens, Florida, on July 3, and the obstacles will only grow more difficult.

With about 525,000 residents, Cape Verde boasts less than every U.S. state. The least populated state, Wyoming, boasts about 576,000 citizens.

Cape Verde has already surpassed the only other smaller countries in population to have qualified for the men’s World Cup.

In their only tournament participation, Curaçao and Iceland both failed in the group stage in 2026 and 2018, respectively.

They also hold the first World Cup debutant record of going unbeaten in all three group-stage games since Senegal accomplished it in 2002.

Senegal thrash 10-man Iraq to keep their knockout hopes alive
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Senegal thrash 10-man Iraq to keep their knockout hopes alive

Senegal can still hope to make the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup after thrashing Iraq 5-0. This victory raises their chances of being among the top third-placed teams.

Pape Thiaw and his team found the work difficult. They had to win by at least two goals, and against Iraq, they did exactly that. A victory like this maintains their contention for a berth in the following round.

Knowing what was on the line, the Lions opened strong with a score in under four minutes. Habib Diarra open the scoring as the strain on the Iraqi defense grew, which caused Ruben Sulaka to get a red card in the 13th minute for a foul on Sadio Mané. Sulaka was dismissed as the last defender for robbing Mané a clear shot at goal.

One player advantage was expected to help Senegal to dominate. But they struggled to connect and lacked accuracy, trailing by one goal at halftime.

Senegal scored rapidly in the second half once more. Following superb play from Lamine Camara, Ismaila Sarr doubled the lead in the 56th minute. Just a minute later, coach Pape Thiaw made three substitutions, bringing in Nicolas Jackson, Iliman Ndiaye, and Pape Gueye.

These adjustments worked. In the 59th and 71st minutes, Pape Gueye scored two goals; Iliman Ndiaye added a fifth one in the 82nd minute. The Lions had a great evening, their eyes now on the remaining games of matchday 3.

Senegal has currently made it to the 2026 World Cup’s round of 32. They are among the top third-placed teams with 3 points and a +2 goal difference. To learn their ultimate ranking, they will have to wait for matchday 3 to end.

Half the work has been completed by Pape Thiaw and his colleagues. With 8 goals total, their offensive might can come in handy should they tie another team trying to get to the round of 32.