Nine African nations set for historic FIFA World Cup Round of 32 battles (See who plays who here)

The stage is set for an exciting Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a record nine African nations preparing to fight for places in the last 16.

For the first time in World Cup history, nine teams from Africa have reached the knockout stage, highlighting the growing strength of football on the continent.

The knockout action begins today, Sunday, June 28, when South Africa take on Canada. The Canadians are favourites, but South Africa will be hoping to continue their impressive campaign.

On Monday, football giants Brazil face Japan, while four-time world champions Germany meet Paraguay. African hopes will also rest on Morocco when they face the Netherlands.

Tuesday’s fixtures will see Ivory Coast take on Norway, while former champions France face Sweden. Mexico and Ecuador will also battle for a place in the next round.

The spotlight will turn to Wednesday when Senegal face Belgium in one of the biggest matches of the round. DR Congo, who reached the knockout stage for the first time, will attempt to upset England. Hosts United States will also play Bosnia and Herzegovina.

On Thursday, Algeria will face Switzerland after their dramatic qualification from Group J. Meanwhile, Croatia take on Portugal, while favourites Spain meet Austria.

The final round of matches takes place on Friday. Defending champions Argentina, inspired by Captain Lionel Messi, will face World Cup debutants Cape Verde. Egypt will play Australia, while Ghana face Colombia.

FIFA World Cup Round of 32 Fixtures

•South Africa vs Canada

•Brazil vs Japan

•Germany vs Paraguay

•Netherlands vs Morocco

•Ivory Coast vs Norway

•France vs Sweden

•Mexico vs Ecuador

•United States vs Bosnia and Herzegovina

•Belgium vs Senegal

•England vs DR Congo

•Switzerland vs Algeria

•Croatia vs Portugal

•Spain vs Austria

•Argentina vs Cape Verde

•Australia vs Egypt

•Ghana vs Colombia

With traditional football powers and emerging nations still in the competition, the Round of 32 promises drama, surprises and the possibility of more history being made at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.