Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco have advanced to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while five other Arab nations have been eliminated, leaving a mix of joy and despair across the region. Egypt made history by reaching the round of 32 for the first time, thanks to a 3-1 victory over New Zealand, following an opening 1-1 draw against Belgium. However, the team will have to face Australia without star player Mohamed Salah, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Qatar and Saudi Arabia Among the Disappointed
For the Asian Football Confederation representatives, none of the four Arab teams advanced. Qatar, the back-to-back Asian champions, suffered a humiliating 6-0 defeat to Canada, a team that had never won a World Cup match before. Despite hiring former Spain and Real Madrid coach Julen Lopetegui in 2025, Qatar managed only one point in a relatively manageable group, a massive underachievement.
Saudi Arabia will rue their missed opportunity after a coaching change from Herve Renard to Georgios Donis in April failed to pay off. The team started well with a 1-1 draw against Uruguay, but a 4-0 loss to Spain was followed by a disappointing 0-0 draw against debutants Cape Verde, lacking intensity and creativity when a win was needed to advance.
Jordan and Iraq Show Promise but Fall Short
Jordan, making their World Cup debut, can hold their heads high despite three losses. They were competitive, with a 3-1 loss to Austria that was closer than the scoreline suggested, a narrow defeat to Algeria after taking the lead, and a loss to defending champions Argentina. Iraq, the last qualifier through the playoffs, faced the toughest group and were outclassed, losing to Norway, France, and Senegal, with the 5-0 defeat to Senegal particularly painful.
Tunisia's Struggles and Coaching Changes
Tunisia conceded 12 goals in the group stage, starting with a 5-1 loss to Sweden that ended their hopes and cost coach Sabri Lamouchi his job. Herve Renard took over but could not turn things around, making Tunisia the only African nation to exit at the group stage.
Morocco and Algeria Carry Hopes
Morocco, the 2022 semifinalists, lived up to expectations by advancing with a 1-1 draw against Brazil and wins over Scotland and Haiti, though conceding two goals to debutants Haiti raised concerns. They face a tough round of 32 match against the Netherlands. Algeria had a roller-coaster group stage, starting with a 3-0 loss to Argentina, then a comeback win over Jordan, and a dramatic 3-3 draw against Austria secured by two goals from Riyad Mahrez, setting up a tie against Switzerland.
Egypt's Historic Achievement
Egypt's smooth journey to the knockout stage included a 1-1 draw with Belgium and a decisive 3-1 win over New Zealand. Despite Salah's absence, other players have stepped up, and the team will look to continue their run against Australia in the round of 32.
