Africa’s hopes of maintaining a strong presence at the 2026 FIFA World Cup rest on two nations tonight, with Egypt and tournament debutants Cape Verde carrying the continent’s flag into the final round of 32 fixtures.
After the elimination of South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Senegal, and Algeria, Egypt and Cape Verde now have the responsibility of keeping Africa’s dream alive.
Egypt face Australia at 8pm (SA time) in Arlington, Texas, while Cape Verde have arguably the toughest assignment of the round when they meet defending champions Argentina at midnight in Miami. The winners of those two matches will meet in the Round of 16.
Egypt progressed to the knockout stages after finishing second in Group G behind Belgium. The Pharaohs displayed resilience and attacking quality throughout the group phase, collecting enough points against Iran and New Zealand to book their place in the last 32. Their campaign has been built on defensive organisation and moments of brilliance from their experienced attacking players.
The North Africans will once again look to talisman Mohamed Salah, who recovered from a hamstring concern ahead of the clash and contributed a goal and two assists during the group stage. His creativity, movement and leadership will be vital against an Australian side renowned for its physicality and disciplined defending. Midfielder Mahmoud Hassan and striker Mostafa Mohamed are also expected to play key roles if Egypt are to reach the Round of 16.
Cape Verde have been one of the surprise packages of the tournament. Making their first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance, the Blue Sharks defied expectations by advancing from a difficult Group H that included Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.
They earned widespread admiration after holding Spain to a goalless draw and fighting back to claim a memorable draw against Uruguay, proving they can compete with the world’s elite. Their disciplined defensive structure and dangerous counter-attacking style have made them one of the tournament’s biggest stories.
Standing in their way are reigning world champions Argentina, led by captain Lionel Messi, who has already scored six goals in the tournament. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has warned against underestimating Cape Verde, praising the Africans’ organisation, resilience, and threat on the counter-attack.
Cape Verde will rely heavily on veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, whose outstanding performances have been crucial to their historic run, while captain Ryan Mendes will be expected to inspire the attack and provide leadership against one of football’s traditional powerhouses.
While Egypt appears to have a realistic chance of overcoming Australia, Cape Verde faces the much tougher challenge against an Argentine side that has looked dominant throughout the competition. Nevertheless, knockout football often produces surprises, and Africa will be hoping both nations can deliver memorable performances and extend the continent’s journey at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.