The Desert Foxes are the latest African side to exit, while three more nations remain in action later on Friday.
Algeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign came to an end on Wednesday after a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the Round of 32, as the Desert Foxes were unable to overcome an early Swiss advantage in Vancouver.
Switzerland made a dream start, taking the lead in the ninth minute when Breel Embolo converted from close range following an incisive move created by Johan Manzambi. The Swiss extended their advantage just 46 seconds into the second half, with Dan Ndoye finding the net to leave Algeria facing an uphill battle.
The Desert Foxes struggled to break down Switzerland’s disciplined defense and created few clear-cut opportunities. Their best chance came before half-time when Fares Chaibi found space inside the penalty area, but his effort was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
The result extends Algeria’s wait for a first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout-stage victory, while Switzerland advanced to the Round of 16 with their first World Cup knockout win since 1938.
Algeria now joins Tunisia, South Africa, the Ivory Coast, Senegal, and DR Congo among the African nations eliminated from the 2026 tournament.
Despite the growing list of exits, Africa’s hopes remain alive. Morocco has already secured a place in the Round of 16 after defeating the Netherlands, while Ghana, Egypt, and Cape Verde are still to play their respective Round of 32 fixtures against Colombia, Australia, and Argentina.
The latest result marks another difficult day for African football at the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, with several of the continent’s leading nations now relying on the remaining teams to extend Africa’s presence in the knockout stages.
