The 2026 FIFA World Cup has highlighted the growing depth of African football, with Congo and Algeria joining Cape Verde as qualifiers for the round of 32. Congo secured their first-ever knockout stage appearance following a resilient 3-1 comeback victory over Uzbekistan.
After trailing for much of the match, Congo turned the game around in the second half. Forward Yoane Wissa equalized with a penalty in the 68th minute, before substitute Fiston Mayele deftly flicked in the go-ahead goal 10 minutes later. Wissa then sealed the historic win with a curling strike in stoppage time. The victory marks a monumental achievement for the nation, which is making only its second World Cup appearance and its first in 52 years.
Reflecting on the milestone, Mayele expressed immense national pride, while Wissa praised the squad’s resilience and emphasized that the success of African teams at this tournament proves the continent’s federations can dream big, driven by a new wave of young talent. Congo will now prepare for a challenging knockout clash against England.
Meanwhile, Algeria advanced from Group J after playing out one of the most dramatic finishes of the tournament in a 3-3 draw with Austria. With the match tied at 2-2 and seemingly destined for a draw in stoppage time, Algerian captain Riyad Mahrez struck suddenly in the 93rd minute to give his side a late lead.
However, Austria countered immediately on the final play of the game, scoring a 96th-minute equalizer. Despite the chaotic final moments, the point was enough to secure progression for both nations. The combined successes of these squads signal a significant step forward for African soccer, building on the continent’s historic performances in recent tournaments and demonstrating a capability to consistently compete on the sport’s biggest stage.
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