Story by Anashe Murombedzi
AFRICA’S challenge at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has suffered a major setback, with five of the continent’s representatives eliminated before the Round of 16.
Senegal became the latest side to exit the tournament after a dramatic 3-2 defeat to Belgium on Wednesday.
The Teranga Lions matched Belgium for much of the contest, with Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr finding the net, but the Europeans sealed victory through a stoppage-time penalty converted by Youri Tielemans to book a Round of 16 clash against co-hosts the United States.
The Democratic Republic of Congo also bowed out after surrendering an early lead to lose 2-1 to England.
Brian Cipenga had given the Leopards the advantage, but Harry Kane struck twice late in the match to send England through to a last-16 meeting with co-hosts Mexico.
Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo join Tunisia, South Africa and Côte d’Ivoire, whose World Cup campaigns have also ended after failing to reach the knockout stage.
Morocco remain the only African nation to have secured a place in the Round of 16, while Ghana, Egypt, Algeria and Cape Verde are still in contention as they seek to extend the continent’s presence in the tournament.
