Morocco Leads Africa's World Cup Knockout Charge
Opta's latest supercomputer simulations have identified Morocco as the first African team with a 100% probability of qualifying for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Atlas Lions followed a 1-1 draw against Brazil with a 1-0 victory over Scotland, putting them on four points in Group C. According to BBC, even a defeat against Haiti in their final group match would likely see them advance as one of the best third-placed teams.
Mixed Fortunes for African Contenders
South Africa and Morocco are the only African nations to have completed two matches. Bafana Bafana sit bottom of Group A after a loss to Mexico and a draw with Czechia, with just an 18.41% chance of progressing—the lowest among their group's four teams. In contrast, Morocco are virtually assured of a place in the last 32.
Ivory Coast Face Uphill Battle Against Germany
Ivory Coast have a 30% chance of beating Germany, who are favourites with a 44.4% win probability according to Opta. A draw is rated at 25.6%. The Elephants need a positive result to boost their hopes in Group E.
Tunisia and Cape Verde Underdogs
Tunisia have only a 15.8% chance of defeating Japan after a 5-1 loss to Sweden in their opener. The Carthage Eagles also face the Netherlands in their final match. Cape Verde, despite a goalless draw with Spain, have a 13.8% probability of beating Uruguay, who are expected to win in over 65% of simulations.
Egypt, Algeria, and Senegal Eye Key Wins
Egypt are favourites against New Zealand with a 58.5% win probability. After drawing with Belgium, a victory would put them on four points. Opta rates Egypt's qualification chances at 80.39%. Algeria have a 59.1% chance of bouncing back from a 3-0 loss to Argentina when they face Jordan. Senegal face a tougher test against Norway and Erling Haaland, with Opta giving the Teranga Lions a 31.3% chance of winning compared to Norway's 43.2%.
Ghana and DR Congo Face Tough Opponents
Ghana started with a 1-0 win over Panama but are overwhelming underdogs against England, who have a 78% win probability. DR Congo, after a creditable draw with Portugal, have only a 20.9% chance of beating Colombia, who are favoured at 58.3%.
Morocco's Historic Milestone
Legit.ng reported that Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi became the African player with the most FIFA World Cup appearances, surpassing Francois Omam-Biyik and Asamoah Gyan with his 12th match against Scotland. The PSG defender's record underscores Morocco's growing stature on the global stage.
