Cape Verde have captured the imagination and secured a World Cup showdown with Lionel Messi's Argentina, but they are just part of a success story for African football as the group stages come to a close.
A record 10 African nations qualified for the expanded 48-team tournament and only Tunisia are headed home before the last 32.
Spain, England, Portugal and Brazil are among the pre-competition favourites that have failed to beat African opposition, with Morocco confidently talking up their chances of becoming the first world champion from the continent.
"That shows the quality of African football," said Algerian star Riyad Mahrez.
"When you see nine out of 10 teams going through for the next round in the biggest tournament, that shows a lot."
A record 10 African nations qualified for the expanded 48-team tournament and only Tunisia are headed home before the last 32.
Spain, England, Portugal and Brazil are among the pre-competition favourites that have failed to beat African opposition, with Morocco confidently talking up their chances of becoming the first world champion from the continent.
"That shows the quality of African football," said Algerian star Riyad Mahrez.
"When you see nine out of 10 teams going through for the next round in the biggest tournament, that shows a lot."
4 months ago
