Morocco, Algeria, Cape Verde, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and South Africa secured places in the knockout stage
Nine African nations advanced to the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, setting a tournament record and marking the continent’s strongest collective performance in World Cup history, Reuters reports.
Morocco, Algeria, Cape Verde, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and South Africa secured places in the knockout stage following the conclusion of group play on June 28. Tunisia was the only African representative eliminated before the single-elimination rounds.
Confederation of African Football President Patrice Motsepe said the achievement reflects years of investment across the continent.
“This success is not by chance,” Motsepe told the outlet.
“It is the result of years of hard work, investment in youth development, infrastructure, and coaching.”
Democratic Republic of the Congo coach Sébastien Desabre also credited sustained development for Africa’s performance.
“The quality of African football has improved, and the players are playing at the highest level in Europe.”
The outlet reports that the results have renewed discussion about Africa’s growing competitiveness on the global stage and its future representation in FIFA competitions.
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Source: Black Enterprise
