How four African nations suffered cruel World Cup exits

Four African teams saw their FIFA World Cup campaigns end in the Round of 32 after late goals and dramatic comebacks denied them progress to the last 16.

Close calls decided in stoppage time and late minutes

South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo and Senegal each pushed their opponents but ultimately fell short when decisive moments arrived late in their matches. The results came down to stoppage-time strikes, late winners and extra-time penalties that ended hopes for the four nations.

South Africa denied at the death

South Africa nearly forced extra time against Canada but conceded in stoppage time. Stephen Eustáquio scored deep into added time to give Canada a 1-0 victory and end Bafana Bafana’s run.

Côte d’Ivoire undone by late Haaland strike

Côte d’Ivoire had been level after Amad Diallo brought them back into their match, but Erling Haaland scored the winner in the 86th minute as Norway won 2-1 to advance.

DR Congo’s lead overturned by England

DR Congo took the lead against England but were pegged back when England captain Harry Kane scored twice late to complete a 2-1 comeback and end DR Congo’s World Cup journey.

Senegal collapse from 2-0 to extra-time defeat

Senegal raced into a 2-0 lead against Belgium but saw that advantage erased by two quick Belgian goals. The match was decided by a penalty in extra time that completed Belgium’s comeback.

A familiar pattern and remaining African hopes

The exits underlined a recurring theme for African teams at major tournaments: strong performances that were undone by crucial late moments. Despite the disappointments, the four sides pushed higher-ranked opponents and took the games to dramatic conclusions.

Other African nations continued in the tournament. Morocco reached the Round of 16 after defeating the Netherlands on penalties. Algeria, Egypt and Ghana were set to play Round of 32 matches against Switzerland, Australia and Colombia respectively.