After two rounds of games, Africa's five World Cup representatives now know what they need to qualify for the last 16 in Qatar.

Three sides from the continent have their destiny in their own hands going into the final round of group games, but two others need to win and then hope other results go their way.

If two sides finish level on points, final group standings will be decided by goal difference, then goals scored before head-to-head results and fair play records come in. 

If records are still identical, lots will be drawn - and if the the latter sounds far-fetched, do not forget that Senegal became the first side to be eliminated on fair play in Russia four years ago.

Senegal - Win needed, but draw could do

The equation is fairly simple for the African champions - the West Africans must beat Ecuador to be sure of progressing from Group A, while the South Americans need just a point to go through themselves.

Senegal could go through with a draw but only if the Netherlands lose to Qatar, which seems unlikely, by a margin of three goals - or a margin of two goals and Senegal outscore the Dutch by a goal.

Given the hosts have lost both their games so far, Aliou Cisse should not count on such a favour and has promised "not to overthink the game" against Ecuador.

"We understand that winning will allow us to continue the adventure and that's what we want to do," Cisse said. "We are OK, we are dealing with pressure and stress. For me, it is good stress."

Tunisia - Three points may not be enough

Tunisia are up against it as the Carthage Eagles sit bottom of Group D after a goalless draw with Denmark preceded a 1-0 defeat by Australia.

The North Africans have to beat defending champions France, who are already assured of a last-16 place, and must score their first goal in Qatar to have any chance of doing so. 

Even then, that will not be enough if Australia beat Denmark.

Tunisia will progress on goal difference if they win and Australia-Denmark ends in a draw, but a win for Denmark would see it come down to goal difference, goals scored or even, possibly, the fair play record.

Tunisia were the first African country to win a game at the World Cup, when they beat Mexico 3-1 in Argentina in 1978, but they once again look set to fail to reach the knock-out stages - for the sixth time out of six.