Nine African teams book spots in U17 World Cup Round of 32

Nine African nations have secured places in the knockout phase of the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar following the conclusion of the group stage.South Africa advanced from Group A as runners-up to Italy with four points. Senegal topped Group C with seven points, edging second-placed Croatia on goal difference, while Zambia claimed second in Group H behind Brazil, also with seven points.Burkina Faso confirmed their progression with a 2-0 win over Tajikistan, finishing Group I with six points. In Group K, Uganda advanced as one of the best third-placed teams, highlighted by their first win against France. Mali joined the knockout stage after a 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia, finishing second in Group L with six points.The North African trio of Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt also moved forward as among the best third-placed teams. At the same time, the Ivory Coast exited the tournament after finishing bottom of their group.The Round of 32 kicks off on Friday, 14 November, with African sides aiming to extend their runs in the competition.