African Teams Struggle in World Cup Knockout Stage

The performance of African teams in the World Cup knockout stage has raised concerns, as only nine out of ten teams progressed past the group stage. Despite Cape Verde's commendable effort against defending champions Argentina, they were eliminated in extra time due to an own goal.

Senegal, leading Belgium 2-0, conceded twice in extra time, resulting in their exit. The Ivory Coast suffered a similar fate against Norway, while DR Congo, despite leading against England, could not maintain their advantage.

Tunisia failed to advance after a record 256 minutes without a goal, and South Africa lost to Canada due to a stoppage-time goal. Algeria's exit against Switzerland highlighted a quality gap, with Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Ibrahim Maza struggling.

The pattern of African teams reaching the knockout stage but failing to convert opportunities into victories continues, as noted by Belgium's head coach Rudi Garcia, who pointed out the recurring theme of inexperience against higher-ranked teams.