According to the FIFA Men’s World Ranking, Senegal are ranked 18th place with 1653.43 points. They have lost three positions in the ranking due to their loss to France and Norway. However, they have managed to significantly improve their international standing compared to their 99th position in June 2013. However, they have yet to match their highest-ever ranking, which was 12th in January of 2026.

Even though Senegal have improved significantly in recent years, they still remain a considerable distance behind Belgium in the rankings. Rudi Garcia’s team are ranked 10th with 1,735.41 points. However, they are not at their best at the moment and could struggle to defeat Pape Thiaw’s team, who have a squad full of stars. To do so, Senegal need to improve their finishing in front of goal.

Led by Sadio Mané, Senegal have established as one of the best national teams. Head coach Pape Thiaw relies on a dominant style of play, looking to break quickly on the counterattack through Mané, Iliman Ndiaye, or Ismaïla Sarr. However, they also have plenty of quality to build up play in midfield. Lamine Camara and Pape Gueye are able to press high and possess excellent vision, endangering Belgium’s chances.

Sadio Mané has a golden opportunity to silence the skeptics in Senegal

Throughout the 2026 World Cup, Senegal have disappointed their supporters, as they were defeated by France and Norway in the group stage. Although they impressed against Iraq, fans now have serious doubts about whether they can beat a strong team like Belgium and reach the Round of 16. Because of this, Sadio Mané has a great opportunity to shine once again by leading his team to become a top contender once more.

Unlike France or Norway, Belgium have not been a brilliant attacking team. Although they have defensive solidity, they have struggled to be dominant in front of goal, missing several big chances. Because of this, Senegal could have a significant advantage, as Sadio Mané is in excellent form to lead the team’s goalscoring efforts, having yet to score in the tournament. If he manages to do so, he would further enhance his historic legacy.

Even though they raised doubts about their competitiveness, Mexico have remained unbeaten at the 2026 World Cup. Relying on a high press, they have impressed offensively, with Julián Quiñones emerging as their standout player. In addition, Luis Romo and Érik Lira have excelled in midfield, finding spaces to play through balls into the opposition’s defense. Along with that, they know how to defend very well in a low block, making them a highly dangerous team.

England managed to defeat DR Congo with a brillant Harry Kane. With their high press, they completely neutralized the opposition’s counterattacks. In addition, Kane was also crucial in creating space in the defense. Because of this, Jude Bellingham had opportunities to shine by making runs into space.Alongside them, Anthony Gordon was essential in stretching the defense down the flanks.

When and at what time will Mexico vs. England be played?

Mexico will face England in the Round of 16 on Monday, July 7, at 8:00 PM ET. It will be the fourth match of the round, following Paraguay vs France or Sweden, Canada vs Morocco and Brazil vs Norway. While Javier Aguirre’s team are the host of the 2026 World Cup, Thomas Tuchel’s team hold the pressure, as they are top contenders for the title. Moreover, they have a stellar roster that imposes them as favorites to secure their quarterfinals.

After the disappointing Qatar 2022 campaign, Mexico have regained their level at the tournament, showcasing a brilliant attack and a solid defense. Facing England, one of the World Cup’s historic teams, they do not enter as favorites and therefore have no pressure to win. Because of this, they have a great opportunity to cause an upset and claim victory. In addition, the outstanding form of Julián Quiñones gives them further reason to believe.

Which stadium will host Mexico vs. England?

Mexico City Stadium, also known as Azteca Stadium, will host the match between Mexico and England. With a capacity of 87,523 spectators, this venue is one of the largest in the tournament. After hosting several World Cup matches throughout history, this stadium has become a regular venue for world-class events. Moreover, Javier Aguirre’s team has never lost a match in the competition at this stadium, making it a difficult venue for their rivals.

Match Overview

Belgium enters the knockout stage with surging momentum after a dominant 5-1 victory over New Zealand secured them the top spot in Group G. Currently riding a 16-game unbeaten streak, the Red Devils are looking to prove that their golden generation’s successors can finally deliver on the international stage. This high-stakes clash is a critical test of their title ambitions.

Senegal, on the other hand, staged a dramatic comeback to reach the Round of 32. After two initial losses, the Lions of Teranga saved their tournament with a stunning 5-0 win against Iraq. For them, this match is a massive opportunity to eliminate a European powerhouse. In a win-or-go-home scenario, Senegal’s resilience makes them an incredibly dangerous opponent.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

The two teams arrive here on vastly different trajectories. Belgium started slow, grinding out two draws before exploding offensively in their final group game. This tournament is about demonstrating tactical evolution and consistency. In contrast, Senegal‘s journey has been a rollercoaster, surviving back-to-back defeats before delivering a commanding performance when it mattered most, showcasing their clutch mentality.

The tactical battle will be a fascinating clash of styles. Belgium will likely deploy a fluid, possession-based 4-2-3-1 system, aiming to use their technical midfielders and dynamic wingers to control the tempo and create openings. Senegal is expected to counter with a compact and physical 4-3-3 formation, focusing on defensive solidity, congesting the midfield, and launching rapid counter-attacks into the space left by Belgium’s advancing players.

For Belgium, the motivation is to validate their status as a top contender and prove that their demolition of New Zealand was a true reflection of their quality, not an anomaly. The pressure is on them to perform. For Senegal, this match feels like a free hit. Having already stared elimination in the face, they can play with a sense of freedom that could unsettle their highly-favored opponents.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

This knockout match at Lumen Field will mark a historic occasion, as it is the first-ever meeting between Belgium and Senegal in any competition, friendly or official. With no prior history to draw from, both teams will be stepping into uncharted territory.

While they haven’t faced Senegal, Belgium has played against African nations six times in past tournaments, securing three wins, two draws, and just one loss. Their most recent encounter was a 1-1 draw with Egypt in the group stage of this competition. Senegal has faced European opposition nine times in the finals, with a record of two wins, three draws, and four defeats, including a 3-2 loss to Norway earlier in this tournament.

Statistically, the group stage revealed key trends. Senegal has been remarkably clinical, scoring eight goals from just 5.25 expected goals (xG), proving they can punish opponents with limited chances. Belgium scored six goals from a higher 6.79 xG, indicating they create more but have been less efficient. However, Senegal‘s defense has been porous, conceding six goals, which could be an area for Belgium‘s potent attack to exploit.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Both squads approach this crucial knockout match with key players available, but each side is monitoring at least one significant injury concern.

Belgium receives a defensive boost with the return of Nathan Ngoy from suspension. However, they are likely to be without Sporting defender Zeno Debast, who has been struggling with an injury since the start of the tournament and is not expected to be fit for this clash.

Senegal‘s primary concern is in goal, where first-choice keeper Edouard Mendy is a major doubt due to a knee injury that forced him out of the last match. Mory Diaw is on standby to deputize again. On a positive note, the rest of the squad is fully available, with no suspensions to worry about.

Belgium Projected XI (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Castagne, Mechele, Ngoy, De Cuyper; Tielemans, Vanaken; Doku, De Bruyne, Trossard; De Ketelaere.

This lineup allows Belgium to control the midfield through Youri Tielemans while unleashing the creative genius of Kevin De Bruyne in the number ten role. The pace and trickery of Jérémy Doku and Leandro Trossard on the wings will be crucial to breaking down Senegal’s organized defense.

Senegal Projected XI (4-3-3): Diaw; Diatta, Niakhate, Seck, Diouf; Gueye, Camara, Gueye; Sarr, Ndiaye, Mané.

Senegal’s strength lies in its powerful and experienced spine. Pape Gueye will be the engine in midfield, while the attacking trio of Sadio Mané, Ismaïla Sarr, and Iliman Ndiaye offers a wealth of Premier League experience, speed, and goal-scoring threat on the counter-attack.

More details on how to watch

You can find the Belgium vs Senegal live stream on Fubo. The platform is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and gaming consoles, as well as web browsers and mobile apps.

In addition to the 2026 tournament, a subscription to Fubo gives you access to a host of other top-tier soccer competitions. You can watch leagues and tournaments from around the world, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action.

A subscription costs just $14.99/month, providing an affordable way to follow all the drama from the knockout stages. This plan gives you access to every single match of the competition live and on-demand.

SEE MORE: World Cup TV Schedule

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as Nord VPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming.

England begins its knockout campaign against DR Congo in Atlanta, with Thomas Tuchel’s side aiming to continue its unbeaten run and move closer to its World Cup ambitions. The Three Lions finished top of their group, while DR Congo reached the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams after producing one of the biggest stories of the tournament.

The match presents a difficult challenge for England because DR Congo have already shown they can frustrate elite opposition. The Leopards held Portugal to a 1-1 draw, pushed Colombia close, and secured a historic qualification after defeating Uzbekistan 3-1.

England’s route has been more comfortable on paper, with victories over Croatia and Panama helping the team finish first in Group L. However, performances have created debate, especially after a goalless draw against Ghana where Tuchel’s side struggled to break down a deep defensive structure.

The reason Bukayo Saka is dropped to the bench

The Arsenal winger has been one of the most important players in Tuchel’s squad, but the manager has decided to manage his workload during the knockout stages. According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, “Noni Madueke back as Bukayo Saka continues to manage fitness, Declan Rice replaces Morgan Rogers & Djed Spence starts as expected.”

The reason behind Saka’s absence is linked to a lingering Achilles issue that has been monitored since before the tournament. Tuchel has been cautious with the winger’s minutes, using him carefully rather than risking a more serious problem that could affect England’s later matches.

Per Sofascore’s statistics, Saka has contributed 1.7 goals/assists per 90 minutes at the World Cup so far, showing his importance despite limited involvement earlier in the tournament. However, it has been suggested that the winger has not looked completely comfortable physically, leading England’s staff to prioritize keeping him available.

Why Thomas Tuchel is protecting Saka

Saka’s importance to England is clear, especially in knockout football where individual moments often decide games. His ability to beat defenders, create chances, and deliver dangerous final balls makes him one of the players Tuchel can rely on when England needs inspiration.

The winger started England’s final group match against Panama after previously being managed carefully, but the coaching staff appears determined to avoid pushing him too hard. With a potential deep run ahead, preserving Saka’s fitness could become a major factor.

England enters the knockout stage after finishing top of Group L, while DR Congo arrives as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams following an impressive group-stage campaign. Victory will send the winner into a Round of 16 meeting with Mexico, making every selection decision even more significant.

The Three Lions opened with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia, followed by a frustrating 0-0 draw against Ghana before eventually overcoming Panama 2-0. Those performances exposed England’s occasional difficulties against teams willing to defend deep. DR Congo is expected to adopt a similarly organized approach after frustrating Portugal during a 1-1 draw earlier in the tournament.

The African nation, meanwhile, has earned widespread praise for its performances during the group stage. DR Congo drew with Portugal, narrowly lost 1-0 to Colombia, and then defeated Uzbekistan 3-1, securing a historic place in the knockout rounds after a 52-year absence from the World Cup.

Why Anthony Gordon is starting on the bench

With the release of the team news, the mystery surrounding Anthony Gordon’s exclusion became clearer. Marcus Rashford has retained his place on the left wing after impressing during England’s recent performances, with Tuchel rewarding the Manchester United forward for his form rather than making another change.

According to multiple pre-match reports, Rashford’s display against Panama convinced the England manager to maintain continuity heading into the knockout stage. Gordon featured prominently in the opening group matches against Croatia and Ghana but struggled to consistently influence proceedings, leaving the door open for Rashford to seize the opportunity.

Tuchel’s decision appears to be based on tactical considerations as much as individual form. DR Congo has built its tournament success on a disciplined defensive structure, and Rashford’s pace, experience and direct running are viewed as qualities that could help unlock a compact back line.

Rather than indicating a loss of confidence in Gordon, the selection reflects England’s depth in attacking positions. Gordon remains a valuable option from the bench should Tuchel require fresh energy later in the contest.

England makes three changes for the knockout clash

Thomas Tuchel has made three alterations to the side that defeated Panama in the final group-stage match. With Declan Rice returning after recovering from a calf problem, Tottenham defender Djed Spence starts at right-back, while Noni Madueke replaces Bukayo Saka, who has been rested on the bench to manage his fitness.

England is also without injured defenders Jarell Quansah and Reece James, forcing Tuchel into defensive adjustments. Spence gets the opportunity after replacing Quansah during the victory over Panama when the Liverpool defender suffered an ankle injury.

The country returned to the FIFA World Cup in 2026 after a 52-year absence, marking only the second appearance in the nation’s history. The first came in 1974 when the country competed under the name Zaire, becoming the first sub-Saharan African nation to qualify for the tournament.

That debut, however, remains one of the toughest moments in the country’s soccer history. Zaire lost all three group-stage matches without scoring, suffering defeats against Scotland, Brazil, and a famous 9-0 loss against Yugoslavia.

The tournament became remembered for the infamous moment involving defender Ilunga Mwepu, who ran out of the defensive wall and kicked the ball away during Brazil’s free-kick attempt. BBC Sport later reported that the incident was connected to deeper issues surrounding the team, including pressure from the country’s leadership after players faced problems with promised bonuses and conditions.

For decades after that tournament, DR Congo struggled to return to soccer’s biggest competition. Problems involving instability, soccer administration, and a lack of consistent development prevented the nation from reaching another World Cup stage until the current generation emerged.

How far have DR Congo advanced in the World Cup?

DR Congo’s best-ever World Cup finish came in the 2026 tournament, where the national team reached the Round of 32 for the first time in history. This became the country’s greatest achievement at the competition after qualifying for the knockout stage from the group phase.

The Leopards achieved a historic campaign after competing in Group K against strong opposition. They earned a 1-1 draw against Portugal, suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Colombia, and completed a dramatic comeback victory over Uzbekistan with a 3-1 win.

That victory delivered several historic milestones. DR Congo recorded its first-ever World Cup win, collected its first points at the tournament, and reached the knockout rounds for the first time. The progress represented a complete turnaround from the 1974 campaign, when the nation finished bottom of its group without a victory.

DR Congo’s World Cup record

Before 2026, DR Congo’s World Cup record consisted only of their appearance as Zaire in 1974. A summary of their historical stats across both appearances:

The contrast between the two tournaments shows the scale of the national team’s transformation. A side that once struggled to compete globally has now become one of Africa’s most exciting World Cup stories.

With Thomas Tuchel leading England at the 2026 World Cup, the national team arrived with a squad filled with world-class talent, including captain Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Declan Rice. After dominating qualifying with a perfect record, England now hopes to turn impressive performances into the one achievement that has escaped many talented squads throughout history.

England’s road to the 2026 World Cup began dominantly. The national team qualified after winning all eight matches in their group, scoring 22 goals and conceding zero, showing the defensive discipline and attacking quality expected from a side considered among the tournament contenders.

Under Tuchel, the Three Lions have developed a more aggressive tactical identity, usually operating in a 4-2-3-1 formation built around pressing, midfield control, and attacking flexibility. The German coach has focused on creating a strong team environment while relying on the individual brilliance of players who can decide matches at the highest level.

Has England ever won a World Cup?

Yes, England has won the FIFA World Cup once in its history. The national team lifted the trophy on home soil in 1966, creating the greatest moment in English soccer history.

Managed by Sir Alf Ramsey, England defeated West Germany 4-2 after extra time in the final at Wembley Stadium. The match became legendary because Geoff Hurst scored a hat-trick, the only hat-trick ever recorded in a men’s World Cup final.

The victory completed a historic tournament for the Three Lions, who were known as the “wingless wonders” because of Ramsey’s tactical approach. Captain Bobby Moore lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy, creating an image that remains one of the most famous moments in soccer history.

Despite inventing the sport, England had missed the first three World Cups due to a dispute with FIFA before making their official debut in 1950. Since then, the national team has become one of the most consistent World Cup participants, although another championship has remained out of reach.

England’s best World Cup finishes after 1966

After their famous triumph, England has experienced several heartbreaking exits and unforgettable tournament runs. The national team reached the semi-finals in 1990, finishing fourth after losing to West Germany in a penalty shootout during a dramatic tournament in Italy.

The Three Lions produced another memorable campaign in 2018, reaching the semi-finals under Gareth Southgate. England eventually lost to Croatia after extra time, but restored belief among supporters after years of disappointing tournament performances.

The national team also reached the quarter-finals multiple times, including in 2022, when England was eliminated by France after Harry Kane missed a late penalty. Overall, England has reached the quarter-final stage more times than many nations, showing its ability to compete deep into tournaments.

England’s biggest World Cup records

England’s history includes several important individual and team achievements. Harry Kane is among the country’s leading World Cup scorers, while Gary Lineker remains England’s top World Cup goalscorer with 10 goals across the 1986 and 1990 tournaments.

Goalkeeper Peter Shilton holds the record for most World Cup appearances for England, featuring in 17 matches across three tournaments. The national team has also created an unwanted record, being eliminated in the quarter-finals more times than any other nation in World Cup history.

According to the latest data verification ahead of the match, England commands the 4th position in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking with an official baseline total of 1,840.46 coefficient points.

Their wildcard challengers represent an unpredictable, intensely physical threat capable of exploiting a momentary lapse in concentration. DR Congo enters the Round of 32 occupying the 41st spot globally on the Inside FIFA leaderboard, carrying a baseline score of 1,495.48 points. This massive separation across the global hierarchy leaves the Three Lions carrying the undisputed burden of expectations before kickoff.

Group Layout and Form Comparison

England validated their top-four ranking by turning in a highly functional group phase, recovering from a tight tactical stalemate against Ghana to log dominant performances across their other assignments. DR Congo, on the other hand, displayed immense defensive resilience to emerge as a dangerous wildcard qualifier from a group controlled by Colombia and Portugal.

The table below outlines the tournament metrics and global rankings for the two opponents:

Elite Longevity

England’s presence inside the absolute upper tier of the global index reflects a sustained multi-year window of competitive consistency. While their all-time historic floor saw them drop to an alarming 27th worldwide back in February 1996, modern structural changes have stabilized the program. The Three Lions reached their absolute competitive peak in recent cycles, scaling the mountain to reach 3rd in the world in late 2023.

Because the FIFA calculation matrix applies its absolute highest match-weight multiplier to World Cup knockout fixtures, the algorithmic movement in the Round of 32 is intensely volatile. Operating as a top-five favorite means England faces a demanding mathematical terrain; the system heavily penalizes higher-seeded teams for failing to secure wins in normal time.

Heading into this highly anticipated elimination game, DR Congo sits at the 41st position in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking with an official baseline of 1,495.48 points.

The challenge awaiting them features an opponent occupying the absolute upper tier of the international leaderboard. England commands the 4th spot globally, holding a commanding 1,840.46 ranking points under Thomas Tuchel. This sets up a profound statistical gap between the two sides, establishing a pure underdog narrative where the African squad can perform with absolute tactical freedom.

Group Stage Performance and Global Rank

DR Congo managed to reach this stage of the competition by fighting through a brutal Group K pool alongside Colombia and Portugal, eventually claiming a spot in the Round of 32 as one of the best third-placed wildcard teams. England, on the other hand, comfortably controlled their destiny by taking the top spot in Group L.

The table below outlines the comparative metrics, merging tournament performance with global rank data:

Historical Context

A broader look at DR Congo’s path on the international ladder shows the extensive ground the program has recovered over the past decade. The Leopards bottomed out at their lowest structural floor in October 2011, when severe organizational transitions saw them drop to 133rd in the world.

Conversely, their absolute peak arrived in the summer of 2017, when a spectacular continental run drove them to an all-time high of 28th globally.

Because World Cup knockout fixtures are assigned the highest possible match-weight value within the FIFA calculation index, the mathematical rewards on the pitch are substantial. The algorithm strictly insulates lower-seeded sides from severe point deductions in the event of a defeat against top-five opposition, meaning a loss carries minimal mathematical risk.

Match Overview

England enters the knockout stage as Group L winners, but their journey has been far from dominant. After an explosive opening win against Croatia, the Three Lions were held to a frustrating draw by Ghana and required a second-half surge to overcome Panama. The pressure is on for manager Thomas Tuchel to unlock his squad’s full potential as they are heavy favorites to advance.

For DR Congo, this match is a historic moment. Reaching the knockout rounds for the first time ever, the Leopards have already exceeded all expectations. They have proven to be a disciplined and resilient side, notably securing a hard-fought draw against Portugal in the group stage. While they are the clear underdogs, they enter this clash with nothing to lose and a chance to deliver one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

The two nations arrive at this fixture from vastly different paths. England navigated their group unbeaten, securing the top spot with a professional, if sometimes uninspired, approach. In contrast, DR Congo battled through as one of the best third-placed teams, showcasing immense mental fortitude to secure a vital win against Uzbekistan on the final matchday to make history.

This match projects to be a classic clash of styles. England will almost certainly control possession and territory, tasked with breaking down a compact and organized DR Congo defense. The Leopards have been formidable at the back, conceding just 0.61 expected goals (xG) per match—the exact same figure as England. The key to the game will be whether England’s creative players can find the speed and precision needed to penetrate a low block, a challenge they struggled with against Ghana.

Motivation for England is clear: this is the first major hurdle in what they hope is a deep tournament run, and anything less than a convincing win will be seen as a failure. For DR Congo, the objective has already been achieved. They play with the freedom of a team that has already made its nation proud, aiming to frustrate their highly-favored opponents and seize any opportunity that comes their way.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

This Round of 32 clash in Atlanta will be the first-ever meeting between England and DR Congo. With no historical precedent in either competitive fixtures or friendlies, both teams will be stepping into uncharted territory, analyzing each other based solely on recent tournament form.

While they haven’t faced DR Congo, England has a strong and unbeaten record against African opposition at the global tournament, posting four wins and five draws in nine matches. Their most recent encounter was the goalless draw against Ghana earlier in this competition, a result that highlights the challenges a well-organized CAF side can present.

DR Congo has faced European teams three times in its tournament history and is still searching for a first victory, having recorded one draw and two losses. However, their impressive 1-1 draw with Portugal in the group stage demonstrated their ability to compete with Europe’s elite. Under coach Sébastien Desabre, they have built a reputation for being exceptionally difficult to break down, keeping 29 clean sheets in their last 57 matches.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

England faces a significant defensive headache heading into the knockouts, while DR Congo reports a fully fit squad ready for their historic match.

Manager Thomas Tuchel is dealing with a mounting injury crisis at right-back. With Reece James, Jarell Quansah, Tino Livramento, and Ben White all sidelined, England‘s options are severely limited, forcing a likely start for Djed Spence. On a more positive note, the midfield will be bolstered by the expected return of Declan Rice, whose presence should provide defensive stability and free up Jude Bellingham to influence the attack.

DR Congo coach Sébastien Desabre has no injury concerns and can field his strongest side. The experience of players from top European leagues, such as Newcastle’s Yoane Wissa and former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe, will be crucial. Wissa, who scored a brace against Uzbekistan, is the team’s primary offensive threat and will be tasked with leading the line against a formidable English defense.

England Projected XI (4-2-3-1):
Pickford; Spence, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Bellingham; Saka, Rogers, Rashford; Kane.
This lineup reflects Tuchel‘s attempt to balance an injury-hit defense with a potent attack. Spence is expected to fill the void at right-back, while Rice‘s return will be vital for controlling the midfield. Up front, Harry Kane will lead the line, supported by a dynamic trio of Saka, Rogers, and Rashford, who will be responsible for breaking down DR Congo‘s defense.

DR Congo Projected XI (4-4-2):
Mpasi-Nzau; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Masuaku; Mbuku, Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Cipenga; Wissa, Bakambu.
Desabre is likely to deploy a disciplined 4-4-2 formation designed to absorb pressure and hit England on the counter-attack. The backline, featuring Premier League experience with Wan-Bissaka, will form a compact low block. The attack will rely on the pace and clinical finishing of Yoane Wissa, who has been their standout player in the tournament so far.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the England vs DR Congo live stream on Fubo. The service is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and iOS and Android mobile devices.

In addition to the 2026 tournament, a subscription to Fubo gives you access to a host of other soccer competitions. You can watch leagues such as Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A, as well as other tournaments and matches from around the world.

The service is available for a monthly fee of $14.99. This single subscription ensures you don’t miss any of the action from the biggest international competition.

SEE MORE: Schedule of World Cup games on US TV.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as Nord VPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming.

Speaking with media members on Tuesday ahead of the team’s final training session, the American captain provided an encouraging update on his physical status. “I felt great in the last game against Turkey. I’m feeling good this week, and I’m definitely ready to go for tomorrow,” Pulisic stated, while confidently adding that he is physically prepared to log a full 120 minutes if the knockout match requires extra time.

The AC Milan forward has completely recovered from the lingering calf tightness that kept him sidelined as a precaution during the group-stage match against Australia. He made a seamless return to the pitch in the group finale against Turkey, where head coach Mauricio Pochettino heavily rotated his squad, subbing Pulisic on in the 58th minute to inject immediate pace, creativity, and elite dribbling down the right wing.

Later, during an exclusive interview with Fox Sports, Pulisic offered a realistic assessment of what the Americans will face against their European opponents: “We’re expecting a really tough game. We saw a lot of good things from them in the group stage. We’ve seen in the knockouts so far that there hasn’t been an easy game for anyone, so we’re not expecting an easy game at all. I think it’s gonna be a good battle. We have to put on a really good performance if we want to win.“

The single-elimination matchup against Bosnia represents a massive hurdle for the USMNT, serving as an opportunity to punch a ticket to the Round of 16 while simultaneously shattering a frustrating historical narrative. Entering Wednesday’s match, the Stars and Stripes are desperate to snap a glaring, multi-tournament winless slump when facing European opposition on the big stage.

In total, the USMNT’s active drought against UEFA opponents has ballooned to 13 consecutive matches without a victory. The Americans last tasted success against a European nation over five years ago (a friendly win over Northern Ireland back in March 2021), a persistent monkey on their back that the squad is eager to shake off under the bright lights of a home World Cup.

Pulisic stands on the precipice of USMNT history

Now fully cleared by the medical staff, Pulisic is locked into Pochettino’s starting XI against Bosnia and Herzegovina as the U.S. chases a spot in the next round. Having already tallied a crucial assist in the tournament opener against Paraguay, the former Borussia Dortmund winger aims to replicate his clutch 2022 World Cup heroics, though this particular match holds immense individual significance for his international legacy.

As it stands, Pulisic has racked up 33 career goals across 88 caps for the USMNT, leaving him just one strike away from tying soccer legend Eric Wynalda (34 goals) for fourth place on the United States’ all-time men’s scoring list.

In the first half, Mexico were clearly the better side, controlling possession and dictating the rhythm of the game while creating the better chances. They took a deserved 2-0 lead at halftime through goals from Quiñones and Jiménez that put the match in their control.

There was not much action in the second half as Mexico stepped back to defend their lead, while Ecuador could not create clear chances despite having more possession. Crosses came from many areas but did not reach the forwards, allowing Mexico to secure the victory.

Julian Quiñones opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, exploiting space behind the Ecuadorian backline and blasting the ball into the top corner, before Raul Jimenez, linking up beautifully with Quiñones, mirrored the feat by slotting home another top-corner strike just nine minutes later. The comfortable 2-0 victory adds Ecuador to the long list of visiting national teams that have failed to solve the riddle of the iconic venue.

The triumph marks the 10th consecutive World Cup match in which Mexico has remained unbeaten on the hallowed grass of the Estadio Azteca. Serving as the primary fortress for El Tri across the 1970, 1986, and now 2026 tournaments, the host nation has racked up eight victories at the stadium while grinding out just two draws.

The complete history of Mexico’s World Cup matches and results at the Estadio Azteca stands as follows:

• 1970 World Cup: Mexico 0-0 Soviet Union (Group stage)
• 1970 World Cup: Mexico 4-0 El Salvador (Group stage)
• 1970 World Cup: Mexico 1-0 Belgium (Group stage)
• 1986 World Cup: Mexico 2-1 Belgium (Group stage)
• 1986 World Cup: Mexico 1-1 Paraguay (Group stage)
• 1986 World Cup: Mexico 1-0 Iraq (Group stage)
• 1986 World Cup: Mexico 2-0 Bulgaria (Round of 16)
• 2026 World Cup: Mexico 2-0 South Africa (Group stage)
• 2026 World Cup: Mexico 3-0 Czechia (Group stage)
• 2026 World Cup: Mexico 2-0 Ecuador (Round of 32)

England or DR Congo up next

After the heartbreak of Qatar 2022 (where they infamously failed to advance past the group stage), Mexico has rediscovered its elite form under head coach Javier Aguirre, and with the Azteca serving as their fortress, they look prepared for anyone. El Tri‘s opponent for the upcoming round will be decided by the high-stakes clash between England and the DR Congo, who square off on Wednesday, July 1st.

Historically, the times Mexico bowed out as tournament hosts, the heartbreaks occurred away from the Azteca, suffering a heavy 4-1 quarterfinal defeat to Italy in 1970 at the Estadio Luis Dosal in Toluca, and a painful 1986 quarterfinal penalty shootout loss to West Germany at the Estadio Universitario in Monterrey. Having seemingly learned from past structural mistakes, El Tri will have the Estadio Azteca, officially designated as Mexico City Stadium for this tournament, as their home ground for at least one more knockout match.

A record-breaking Mexican squad

The decisive victory over Ecuador was far more than just another standard advancement in the knockout bracket, it was a flashing warning sign to the rest of the world regarding what this 2026 Mexican squad can achieve. By preserving the 2-0 shutout, they stand alone as the only defensive unit in the entire tournament that has yet to concede a single goal.

Furthermore, when factoring in their 2-1 consolation victory over Saudi Arabia in their final group match four years ago, Mexico is currently riding a historic five-game World Cup winning streak, a blistering run of form that sets a brand-new gold standard for the national program.

The co-hosts broke the deadlock through a well-worked attacking move that caught Ecuador off guard. Roberto Alvarado slipped a pass into space to spring Julian Quiñones, who took the ball in stride and fired it past goalkeeper Hernan Galindez to open the scoring — his third goal of the tournament.

El Tri doubled their advantage soon after, when brilliant interplay between Quiñones and Raul Jiménez carved out space at the edge of the box, allowing Jiménez to curl a finish into the top corner to seal the game and give his team a spot in the next round.

With the win, Javier Aguirre’s men keep alive their bid to match or better Mexico‘s best-ever World Cup showings, the quarterfinal runs they produced as hosts back in 1970 and 1986.

Mexico’s Round of 16 rival and venue

After defeating Ecuador, Mexico will face the winner of England and DR Congo in the Round of 16 on July 5 at Mexico City Stadium, keeping El Tri on home turf for a second straight knockout match.

On paper, England would appear to be the likely next opponent, as clear favorites over the African side. Should they come out on top, Mexico would have a chance at revenge, as the two sides have met only once before at a World Cup, back in 1966, when the Europeans won 2-0 in the group stage.

If DR Congo pull off the upset, it would mark their first-ever World Cup meeting with Mexico. The two sides do have one prior meeting, though, a 2006 friendly that the North Americans won 2-1 in the buildup to that year’s World Cup in Germany.

The opening whistle for the crucial matchup has been temporarily put on hold due to torrential rainfall and a high threat of lightning and electrical activity currently hammering the stadium. While meteorologists had anticipated inclement weather for the region, the rapid deterioration of atmospheric conditions just an hour before game time ultimately forced FIFA officials to delay the start of the match.

Both national squads had already arrived at the venue and were preparing to take the pitch for their standard pre-match warm-up routines at 8 p.m. ET, even as an ominous darkness blanked the sky above the stadium while fans cautiously began returning to their seats in the stands.

As of right now, tournament organizers have officially pushed back the kickoff by one hour from its original slot, slating the match between Mexico and Ecuador to begin at 10 p.m. ET. With the severe weather conditions finally easing up around the stadium, both national teams have officially taken the pitch to undergo their pregame warm-up routines ahead of the newly scheduled start time.

What does FIFA say about adverse weather conditions?

As previously seen across various tournaments hosted in the United States, FIFA enforces strict safety guidelines mandating that any lightning strike detected within an eight-mile radius of an open-air venue triggers an immediate shelter-in-place order. Under these rules, both teams must remain inside their respective locker rooms and fans are required to clear the open seating bowl to seek shelter under covered concourses, with a mandatory 30-minute countdown clock resetting with every subsequent lightning strike.

This exact protocol was previously utilized during the France-Iraq group stage match earlier this month, when a massive thunderstorm and severe lightning rolled over Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. In that particular instance, the match on American soil was ultimately delayed for nearly two hours before conditions cleared, a lengthy disruption that tournament officials are hoping to avoid duplicating tonight in Mexico City.

The shootout doesn’t always go the full five rounds. If one side builds a lead the other team mathematically cannot overcome — even with all of its remaining attempts — the shootout ends immediately. That’s how, in the 2022 final, Argentina’s win was sealed after their fourth penalty, even though both teams technically had one kick left.

If the teams are still level after all five initial kicks have been taken, the shootout moves into sudden death. From that point on, each side takes one penalty per round, and the shootout ends as soon as one team scores and the other misses in the same round.

There’s no cap on how many sudden-death rounds can be played — if every eligible outfield player and goalkeeper has already taken a kick and the score is still tied, the order resets and the cycle continues until a winner emerges.

Before any of this begins, the referee runs through a couple of formalities. Two coin tosses decide which team kicks first and which end of the field the shootout will be taken at, since both teams take all of their penalties at the same goal.

The rules goalkeepers and kickers have to follow

Goalkeepers face strict limits during a shootout. They must stay on the goal line, though they’re allowed to move side to side along the line. They can take one step forward at the moment of the shot, but they must keep at least one foot on the line.

Stepping forward off the line before contact, touching the woodwork as a distraction, or trying to put off the kicker verbally can all result in the kick being retaken if it’s missed.

Kickers have their own restrictions, too. The ball must be struck cleanly — if a player makes contact with it more than once during their attempt, the kick is disallowed if scored, or recorded as a miss if it wasn’t.

The country’s best World Cup performance came in 2006, when Ecuador reached the Round of 16 for the first time. They advanced from the group stage after victories over Poland and Costa Rica before finishing second behind host nation Germany following a defeat in the final group match.

Their memorable run ended against England in the Round of 16. Ecuador produced a disciplined performance but were eliminated 1-0 after David Beckham scored the winning goal from a free kick in the 60th minute.

Their other participations

In their other appearances before 2026, Ecuador were unable to reach the knockout stage. On their World Cup debut in 2002, they finished fourth in a group with Italy, Mexico and Croatia, although they closed the tournament with a memorable victory over Croatia.

In 2014, Ecuador again fell short after finishing third behind France and Switzerland with four points. Their only victory came against Honduras, with Enner Valencia playing a starring role.

In 2022 they narrowly missed out in a disappointing way after beating Qatar and drawing with the Netherlands before a decisive 2-1 defeat to Senegal in their final group match.

The 2026 campaign

This campaign has already brought Ecuador close to matching their best World Cup run. The expanded tournament format allowed the best third-placed teams to advance, and Ecuador took advantage after recovering from a loss to Ivory Coast and a draw with Curaçao by defeating Germany to finish third and reach the Round of 32.

Despite this being the biggest match of Mexico‘s tournament so far, Aguirre has opted to go in a different direction with his captain from kickoff. Taking his place is Cesar Montes, who slots in alongside Johan Vasquez at the heart of the defense.

The call isn’t tied to fitness or any disciplinary issue — Alvarez is fully healthy and has no suspension hanging over him, but Aguirre preferred to go back to the same central defensive pairing he used in the opener against South Africa, where Montes was sent off and missed the following match.

Alvarez took his place in Matchday 2 against South Korea, and played alongside Montes in the final group game against Czechia. But for this crucial game against Ecuador, Aguirre is going back to his preferred pairing, with Montes and Vasquez forming the central defense together once again.

Mexico looking for a spot in the Round of 16

Mexico are hoping to make the most of home advantage and will look for a win in front of their own fans to keep playing on home soil. Should they beat Ecuador, Mexico would play at Mexico City Stadium against the winner of England and DR Congo, who meet in Atlanta in their own Round of 32 tie.

Playing as hosts has historically suited Mexico well, as their best World Cup campaigns came when they hosted the tournament in 1970 and 1986, reaching the quarterfinals on both occasions. This year they’ll look to set a new mark, having gotten off to a strong start by winning all of their group-stage matches without conceding a single goal.

Ecuador are currently 24th in the FIFA World Ranking with 1,592.59 points. That is one place lower than in the June 11 update, despite recovering from a defeat to Ivory Coast and a draw with Curaçao by beating Germany to qualify for the knockout stage.

After finishing third in Group E, Ecuador went from being on the brink of elimination to becoming a confident side capable of challenging a team that won all three of its group-stage matches.

Mexico’s ranking

Mexico have enjoyed an excellent tournament so far, winning all three group-stage matches against South Africa, South Korea and Czechia to finish top of Group A and earn a home knockout match against Ecuador.

They are currently ninth in the FIFA World Ranking with 1,736.01 points. That is five places higher than in the June 11 update after their perfect group-stage campaign.

Mexico have spent long periods among the world’s top national teams. Their highest ranking was fourth in 1998, while their lowest position came in 2015, when they dropped to 40th.

Ecuador’s highest ranking

Ecuador have also reached impressive heights in the FIFA World Ranking. Their highest-ever position was 10th in 2013, while their lowest ranking was 76th in 1995.

Jimenez has been included in the starting XI against Ecuador. Head coach Javier Aguirre made the tactical decision to rest the Fulham striker on the substitutes’ bench during the final group-stage match against Czechia, as Mexico had already locked up the top spot in the group. Now fully fresh and fit, Jimenez will make his highly anticipated return to the lineup.

El Tri enters the knockout stage on the heels of a flawless group-stage campaign, distinguishing themselves as the only team in the entire tournament to not concede a single goal during the opening round. A clinical 2-0 victory over South Africa set the tone before a gritty 1-0 win over South Korea, which allowed Aguirre to heavily rotate his squad as Mexico cruised past Czechia 3-0 to complete a perfect start.

Conversely, Ecuador arrives in the Round of 32 after securing a dramatic knockout berth as a third-place qualifier out of Group E. A tough 1-0 defeat to the Ivory Coast and a frustrating scoreless draw against Curaxao left La Tri‘s tournament hopes hanging by a thread, but a historic 2-1 upset over Germany punched their ticket to the knockouts, providing a massive morale boost they hope to ride all the way.

Mexico and Ecuador clash after a heated night at the team hotel

In a fiery matchup between two Latin American rivals, Ecuador’s arrival in Mexico City was met with a hostile reception from the locals. On Monday night, June 29th, a large group of passionate Mexican supporters swarmed the hotel where the Ecuadorian national team was staying, setting off a barrage of loud fireworks, aggressive chants, musical serenades, and car horns in a deliberate attempt to disrupt the players’ sleep, with video clips of the scene quickly going viral on social media.

On Tuesday morning, the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) quickly fired back, releasing an official statement condemning the “unsporting actions” ahead of the match. “Regarding certain off-the-pitch actions that occurred in the buildup to the Round of 32 match, the Ecuadorian Football Federation informs that it has sent a formal complaint to the organization, as this behavior is a far cry from the principles of fair play, equality, and unity that a football World Cup should represent,” part of the statement read.

Confirmed lineups for Mexico and Ecuador

Mexico’s confirmed lineup (4-3-3): Raul Rangel; Jorge Sanchez, Johan Vasquez, Cesar Montes, Jesus Gallardo; Gilberto Mora, Erik Lira, Luis Romo; Roberto Alvarado, Raul Jimenez; Julian Quiñones.
Head coach: Javier Aguirre.

Ecuador’s confirmed lineup (4-4-2): Hernan Galindez; Alan Franco, Joel Ordoñez, William Pacho, Piero Hincapie; John Yeboah, Pedro Vite, Moises Caicedo, Nilson Angulo; Gonzalo Plata, Enner Valencia.
Head coach: Sebastian Beccacece.

The match between Paraguay and France is scheduled for July 4, just one day after the Round of 32 concludes. While France may enter as the favorite, Germany’s elimination showed that no team can afford to underestimate its opponent.

Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. ET at Philadelphia Stadium, one of the tournament’s largest venues with a capacity of 67,593. The stadium should see another packed crowd as Paraguay attempt to continue their remarkable run against a great team.

Their previous match

The two teams reached this stage in very different ways. While the tournament has already produced several surprises, including Cape Verde’s draw against Spain, Paraguay and France booked their places in the Round of 16 with contrasting performances.

Paraguay’s victory was filled with tension. Germany came from behind to level the match at 1-1, had a goal disallowed in extra time, and Paraguay missed two penalties that could have sealed the shootout before finally advancing.

France, meanwhile, had a much more comfortable path. They showcased their attacking quality throughout the match against Sweden, securing a 3-0 victory to book their place in the Round of 16 with an impressive all-around performance.

A famous antecedent

These teams have produced two memorable meetings. The first came at the 1958 World Cup, when Paraguay led 3-2 before France mounted a comeback to win 7-3. They met again in the Round of 16 in 1998, where eventual champions France needed a 114th-minute golden goal from Laurent Blanc to eliminate Paraguay.

The France captain’s brace marked his tenth goal in a World Cup knockout match, leaving behind a three-way tie with Brazilian greats Leonidas and Ronaldo, who had each scored eight.

It was also Mbappe’s 18th World Cup goal overall, moving him past Miroslav Klose and into outright second place on the all-time World Cup scoring list, behind only Lionel Messi, who currently leads with 19.

How Mbappe’s record stacks up against Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo

The number puts real distance between Mbappe and the two players most often compared to him. Lionel Messi, despite playing in 12 World Cup knockout matches across six tournaments, has scored five knockout goals — five fewer than Mbappe, who has needed just eight elimination games to reach ten.

The gap with Cristiano Ronaldo is even more striking. Across 22 World Cup matches and six tournaments, the Portuguese forward has never scored in a knockout match, going scoreless in all six of the elimination games he’s played. Mbappe now has more knockout goals on his own than Messi and Ronaldo have combined.

Breaking down Mbappe’s record

Mbappe’s knockout pedigree dates back to his very first World Cup. As a 19-year-old in 2018, he scored a brace in France’s thrilling 4-3 Round of 16 win over Argentina before adding the winning goal in the final against Croatia, becoming only the second teenager in history to score in a World Cup final, after Pele in 1958.

He doubled down on that reputation in Qatar four years later, scoring in the Round of 16 against Poland before producing a hat trick in the final against Argentina — the first hat trick in a World Cup final since Geoff Hurst in 1966 — even though France ultimately lost the match on penalties.

In a recent interview with Spanish outlet Cadena SER, Yamal was asked whether he would like to share the pitch with Alvarez at the Camp Nou, and the teenager left the door wide open for the Argentine star: “Right now I’m not thinking about it much, but I hope so, because he is a great player. If he comes, we will welcome him with open arms because he will be coming to the best club in the world, to the best fanbase in the world, and to the best city in the world for me.“

While the financial finer points remain up in the air with the World Cup still taking center stage, Yamal made sure his personal message to Alvarez was crystal clear. “If I were him, I would do it. We are waiting for him if he wants to come. Come on over,” the 18-year-old concluded.

With Robert Lewandowski recently departing Barcelona as a free agent to sign with the MLS side Chicago Fire, a massive vacancy has opened up for a world-class No. 9 in Catalonia. Alvarez has been a top target for sporting director Deco for several seasons, and the club views the combination of their vacant striking role and the player’s desire for a change of scenery as the perfect storm to finalize a deal.

Following Argentina’s recent victory against Austria, Alvarez himself was quite vocal about the mounting transfer speculation. “I don’t think it’s the right time to talk about this, but I can’t hide or pretend otherwise either. I try to be an honest person. I spoke with the people at the club, with those I needed to talk to. I think a transfer is best for everyone, and I want to fulfill my dream,” he stated.

Though he has refrained from naming Barcelona outright, the Catalan giants have been his lifelong dream destination, a passion heavily influenced by his childhood idol, Lionel Messi. While Atletico Madrid remains highly reluctant to sell their prized asset for anything less than his staggering 500 million euro release clause, the striker’s firm stance and the heavy recruitment from Barcelona figures like Yamal could alter the landscape in the weeks ahead.

Atletico Madrid files official complaint to FIFA against Barcelona

The transfer market bad blood between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid has boiled over multiple times recently, to the point where Los Colchoneros even mocked the media speculation by trolling fans with a Photoshopped image of Yamal in an Atletico jersey. However, as the rumors surrounding Álvarez continue to intensify, the capital city club has taken definitive legal action.

In an official statement given to the Spanish news agency EFE, Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin confirmed the legal escalation: “Our responsibility is to defend the interests of Atlético de Madrid, and that is why we are going to file a complaint with FIFA against Barcelona for negotiating with a player who has an active contract during the protected period.“

Paqueta was forced off at halftime in Houston after picking up the issue during the first half against Japan, and scans the following day confirmed the worst for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

In an official statement, the CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation) said: “Paqueta underwent scans on Tuesday that confirmed a muscle injury to the back of his left thigh. The player will undergo an intensive treatment programme under the supervision of the national team’s medical staff, with the aim of recovering and returning to action as soon as possible”.

While the CBF did not provide a recovery timeline, the midfielder will follow an intensive treatment protocol with the goal of completing his recovery as soon as possible. However, the outlook isn’t especially encouraging — even the mildest grade of muscle tears typically require two to three weeks of recovery.

With Paqueta now sidelined, Ancelotti faces a decision: shift another midfielder or open a spot in the side for Neymar, who could fill the void in that position and has been building up his minutes step by step heading into the latter stages of the tournament.

Neymar’s road back: from the bench to a possible start

Neymar’s path to the 2026 World Cup has been anything but smooth. The 34-year-old, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, suffered a Grade II muscle injury to his right calf while playing for Santos, just one day before Ancelotti named him in his 26-man squad.

The injury kept him out of Brazil’s first two group games, a 1-1 draw with Morocco and a 3-0 win over Haiti, and marked an extension of an absence that had already stretched back to October 2023, when Neymar tore his ACL playing for Brazil against Uruguay. By the time he was passed fit to feature against Scotland, he hadn’t played a competitive minute for the national team in 980 days.

Neymar made his tournament debut off the bench in that Scotland match, coming on in the 76th minute and playing roughly 14 minutes. He remained in a substitute role for the Round of 32 win over Japan, where he didn’t end up coming on, though Ancelotti explained the idea had been to use him in extra time had the match gone there.

When do Brazil play next?

Brazil’s Round of 16 match against Norway is set for July 5 at the New York New Jersey Stadium. Norway booked their spot in the next round with a 2-1 win over Ivory Coast in the Round of 32, with Erling Haaland scoring the decisive goal late on.

Listen to the full tactical breakdown on Spotify to see who survives the carnage.

The most stunning headline of the day came from Boston, where Paraguay pulled off the biggest upset of the tournament by eliminating four-time champions Germany. After grinding out a 1-1 draw through extra time, the match went to a tense penalty shootout. Highlighting the dramatic conclusion, German penalty specialist Kai Havertz missed his opening spot-kick, and goalkeeper Orlando Gill made critical stops to hand Germany its first World Cup shootout loss in history, sealed by José Canale’s sudden-death winner.

The penalty shootout misery spread to the Netherlands as well. The Dutch fell victim to a highly organized Moroccan side, bowing out in a dramatic shootout following a scoreless stalemate. The result marks the earliest World Cup exit in Dutch football history, while Morocco locks in a highly anticipated Round of 16 date.

The only favorite to survive the day’s slate was Brazil, though they had to fight through pure anxiety against Japan. The Samurai Blue took a shock first-half lead through Kaishū Sano before Casemiro found a second-half equalizer. Just as the match seemed destined for extra time, substitute Gabriel Martinelli popped up in the 96th minute to slide home a dramatic, breathtaking match-winner to rescue a -1 victory for the Seleção.

You can stream the entire daily overview right now. Check out the Rabona TV World Cup Recap on Spotify to see how the Round of 16 bracket is shaping up after a historic day of giant-killings.

Listen to the full episode on Spotify to hear the complete knockout breakdown.

The program leads with a deep tactical analysis of Canada’s hard-fought Round of 32 triumph over South Africa. Jesse Marsch’s side put together an incredibly resilient defensive performance, managing key moments under intense pressure to punch their ticket to the historic Round of 16.

The hosts highlight the standout performers who kept the clean sheet intact and discuss what this defensive stability means for Canada’s long-term tournament ambitions.

You can stream the entire daily breakdown right now. Check out The 90th Minute on Spotify to get the latest match reactions, predictions, and complete coverage of the road to the final.

According to the FIFA Men’s World Ranking, Mexico are ranked 9th place with 1736.01 points. Having secured three consecutive victories, they have escalated five positions compared to the start of the tournament. In recent years, they have managed to significantly improve their international standing compared to their 40th position in July 2015. However, they have yet to match their highest-ever ranking, which was 4th in May of 2006.

With their solid performances, Mexico have a privileged spot in the ranking than their opponents, Ecuador. Despite coming off a win over Germany, they have dropped one place in the rankings and now sit 24th with 1,592.59 points. With this in mind, Javier Aguirre’s team remain the top contenders to reach the Round of 16. To do so, they will need to produce their best attacking performance, as they are facing a solid defense.

Unlike their opponents in the group stage, Javier Aguirre’s team will face one of the best defenses at the 2026 World Cup. Despite not standing out in front of goal, Ecuador have one of the tournament’s most compact teams. Sebastián Beccacece has built a solid defensive unit with Willian Pacho, Piero Hincapié, and Joel Ordóñez. In addition, they can take advantage of their pace on the wings to create danger, looking for Gonzalo Plata or Kevin Rodríguez up front.

Julian Quiñones is Mexico’s scoring hope against Ecuador

Throughout the 2026 World Cup, Mexico have excelled in attack, competing head-to-head against all of their opponents. Because of this, they remain the clear favorites to defeat Ecuador, having advanced through the group stage without conceding a single goal. Although they do not have strikers in top form, Julián Quiñones remains one of the team’s leading goalscorers and is expected to be Javier Aguirre’s biggest hope.

With his outstanding dribbling ability and pace, Julián Quiñones has consistently found space in opposition defenses. With Raúl Jiménez occupying opposing defenders, he has become Mexico’s top scorer with two goals. Facing Ecuador’s solid defense, the 29-year-old star is the team’s biggest hope to lead them to victory. To achieve that, the quiet work of Raúl Jiménez and Roberto Alvarado will be crucial, as they draw defenders away to give him space to finish calmly.

As Mexico’s top scorer, Julián Quiñones could be marked by Ecuador with two defenders in an attempt to limit his impact. In that case, he would become the key player in creating space for Raúl Jiménez, who would face the pressure of being clinical in front of goal. Therefore, the 29-year-old star remains Javier Aguirre’s most decisive player in their pursuit of a place in the Round of 16.

Match Overview

Mexico and Ecuador meet in a win-or-go-home Round of 16 showdown with a place in the next stage on the line. El Tri enters in top form after winning all three group-stage matches to finish first.

Ecuador, on the other hand, advanced as one of the tournament’s best third-place teams by rebounding from a draw against Curaçao with a key victory over Germany. The matchup also adds another chapter to Mexico’s growing rivalry with CONMEBOL opposition.

The current tournament, co-hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States, marks the 13th time Sweden has qualified for the sport’s premier showcase. This means that across the 23 total editions of the tournament (including this year’s event), the European nation has failed to qualify ten times, notably sitting out the 2010 tournament in South Africa, the 2014 edition in Brazil, and the 2022 iteration in Qatar during the current century.

So far in the 2026 World Cup, Sweden has looked highly volatile, pairing soaring highs with devastating lows. After kicking off the tournament with a comprehensive 5-1 blowout victory against Tunisia, the Netherlands dismantled the Blue and Yellow by that exact same scoreline, forcing Sweden to secure a knockout berth as a third-place qualifier following a gritty 1-1 draw with Japan.

Sweden’s best World Cup campaigns

While they are rarely discussed in the same breath as Europe’s absolute traditional powerhouses, Sweden has historically punched well above its weight on the global stage. Their deepest run came during the 1958 tournament, when Sweden finished as the World Cup runners-up, taking home the silver medal and coming agonizingly close to securing the sport’s most coveted silverware.

In that unforgettable year, Sweden served as the tournament host, utilizing home-field advantage to put together the greatest team performance in national history. After eliminating the Soviet Union and West Germany in the knockout rounds, they squared off against Brazil at Rasunda Stadium in Stockholm, where a 17-year-old Pele scored twice in a 5-2 Brazilian victory to claim the title.

While that 1958 masterclass remains Sweden’s lone appearance in a World Cup final, the nation has knocked on the door of the championship match on other occasions. They reached the semifinals in both 1938 and 1994, falling to Hungary and Brazil respectively, which forced them into the third-place match rather than the final.

Consequently, the European side holds two official third-place finishes, one obtained in 1950 (when the tournament featured a final round-robin group rather than standard knockout matches) and another in 1994. In that 1994 tournament, also hosted by the United States, they dismantled Bulgaria 4-0 to secure the bronze, a high-water mark they are eager to chase down now that they are back in North America.

Sweden’s overall World Cup record

Sweden has competed in 13 World Cups throughout its history, managing to finish among the top four teams on three separate occasions. This historical consistency has allowed them to climb to 11th place on the tournament’s all-time points leaderboard, having accumulated 70 points over the years.

Excluding their current 2026 campaign, Sweden has played in 51 total World Cup matches, securing 19 victories, grinding out 13 draws, and suffering 19 defeats, creating one of the most perfectly balanced historical records in international soccer.

Doue will begin the match on the substitutes’ bench due to a tactical decision by head coach Didier Deschamps. The Paris Saint-Germain winger has been in excellent form and is not dealing with any injury or physical discomfort; rather, the French manager has simply opted for a different strategic approach, leaving the dynamic wide player out of the opening XI.

In fact, Deschamps chose to completely revamp what many expected to be his starting left flank. While Theo Hernandez and Doue handled the heavy lifting against Senegal and Norway in France’s toughest group-stage fixtures, Deschamps instead deployed Lucas Digne and Bradley Barcola on the left side, a duo that previously paired up during a more comfortable group match against Iraq.

As a result of the shuffle, France’s frontline will feature Barcola and Ousmane Dembele out wide on the wings. Michael Olise will pull the strings as the central playmaker directly behind the primary striker, a focal point role that superstar Kylian Mbappe has anchored throughout the competition.

Doue has emerged as one of the premier young talents in France over the last few years, playing a pivotal role in PSG’s deep UEFA Champions League runs to earn a coveted spot in this star-studded national team. After contributing to France’s 2025 UEFA Nations League Final Four campaign, he started against both Senegal and Norway, opening his tournament account against the latter by scoring his first career World Cup goal in a 4-1 rout.

France managing injuries ahead of knockout push

After grinding out a tough win over Senegal in their tournament opener, France quickly transformed into an absolute juggernaut, cruising to a 3-0 victory over Iraq and a commanding 4-1 blowout of Erling Haaland’s Norway. Les Bleus head into the single-elimination stage in blistering form, though the coaching staff is still forced to manage a handful of lingering fitness concerns.

For Tuesday’s clash against Sweden, forward Marcus Thuram is highly unlikely to feature as he continues to nurse a stubborn calf injury. Meanwhile, as first reported by RMC Sport, veteran midfielder N’Golo Kante has been dealing with a persistent knee issue, which has notoriously prevented the 2018 World Cup champion from making his debut in this year’s tournament.

France are currently second in the FIFA World Ranking with 1,906.84 points. That is one place higher than in the June 11 update after overtaking Spain, with victories over Senegal, Iraq and Norway helping them move up the standings.

After winning all three group-stage matches, France will look to carry that momentum into the knockout rounds. Argentina are the only team ranked above them in the latest FIFA update.

Sweden’s ranking

As winners of Group I, France were paired with one of the eight best third-placed teams to advance from the expanded group stage. That team turned out to be Sweden.

Sweden have experienced both highs and lows in the FIFA World Ranking over the years. Their highest position came in 1994, when they reached second place, while their lowest ranking was 45th in 2017.

Sweden are currently 37th in the FIFA World Ranking with 1,525.58 points after climbing one place from the June 11 update. A win over Tunisia, a draw against Japan and a loss to the Netherlands were enough to secure a place in the knockout stage.

France’s highest ranking

France have consistently been among the world’s top national teams throughout their history. Their highest position came when they reached first place, most recently on April 1 this year, while their lowest ranking was 27th in 2010.

Sweden sit at No. 37 in the latest FIFA World Rankings, more than 380 points behind the side they’re about to face. Sweden’s group stage was a mixed bag — they opened with a 5-1 win over Tunisia, were then thumped 5-1 by the Netherlands, and closed things out with a 1-1 draw against Japan.

That haul of four points was just enough to sneak Graham Potter’s men through as one of the eight strongest third-place teams, with goal difference playing a major role in keeping their World Cup alive.

Awaiting them is a France side ranked all the way up at No. 2, and arriving with the tournament’s most fearsome attack on display. Didier Deschamps’ group made light work of Group I, opening with a 3-1 win over Senegal, following it with a 3-0 victory against Iraq, and rounding things off with a 4-1 demolition of Norway to finish with a perfect record.

Sweden looking to make the most of a tough draw

France are the clear favorites to advance in this matchup, though they’ll need to be wary of Sweden’s Premier League-stocked front line. Viktor Gyokeres, Alexander Isak, and Anthony Elanga have combined for four of Sweden’s seven goals at the tournament so far.

Sweden will look to pull off a major upset at the New York New Jersey Stadium to book a place in the Round of 16, where Paraguay await after eliminating Germany on penalties.

France, meanwhile, arrive as one of the favorites to lift the trophy, powered by Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, who have combined for eight of their side’s group-stage goals.

It will be the first-ever World Cup meeting between the two nations, with France holding a commanding edge in their broader head-to-head history, having won 12 of their meetings to Sweden’s six victories, with five draws.

El Tri have emerged as one of the strongest performers of the tournament so far, finishing Group A with an impeccable record. Javier Aguirre’s side collected three wins from three matches, scored six goals, and conceded zero, becoming the first Mexico team to complete a World Cup group stage without dropping points.

They started the tournament with a 2-0 victory over South Africa before following it with a narrow 1-0 win against South Korea. The final group match showed their confidence and depth as Mexico defeated Czechia 3-0 despite making several lineup changes.

The results have created excitement among supporters, especially because Mexico is playing on home soil. The atmosphere at the Mexico City Stadium has become a major advantage, with thousands of fans expecting Aguirre’s team to finally break past the last 16 barrier that has haunted the national team for decades.

Ecuador arrives after shocking Germany

Ecuador’s journey has been far more complicated. Sebastian Beccacece and his players struggled early in Group E, suffering a 1-0 defeat against Ivory Coast before drawing 0-0 with Curacao despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances.

Their World Cup survival depended on the final group match against Germany, where Ecuador produced one of the biggest results of the tournament. After falling behind, Ecuador fought back to win 2-1 and secure qualification as one of the best third-placed teams. The victory gave Ecuador the belief that they can compete against even the strongest opponents.

What happens if Mexico wins and Ecuador loses?

A Mexico victory sends El Tri directly into the Round of 16 and continues their historic home World Cup campaign. The national team would keep alive hopes of reaching the famous “fifth game,” the quarter-final stage that Mexico has not reached since the 1986 World Cup.

Mexico would also remain at the Mexico City Stadium for the next knockout match, where the home crowd could play another important role. Their opponent would be the winner of the Round of 32 clash between England and DR Congo. A win would transform the pressure surrounding Aguirre’s team into genuine belief that this generation can achieve something special.

What happens if Ecuador wins and Mexico loses?

An Ecuador victory would create one of the biggest shocks of the tournament. La Tri would eliminate the co-host nation and move into the Round of 16, replacing Mexico in the bracket.

Ecuador would face the winner of England vs DR Congo in the next round and continue a tournament run that already includes a major upset against Germany. For Mexico, defeat would bring another painful early knockout exit and extend the wait for a historic quarter-final appearance.

What happens if Mexico and Ecuador draw?

A draw after 90 minutes would not decide the match because this is a knockout fixture. Unlike the group stage, there are no points or standings involved, meaning the clash must eventually produce a winner. If the score remains level after extra time, the match will go to a penalty shootout.

The winner of that shootout advances to face the winner of England vs DR Congo. The possibility of penalties adds another layer of drama, especially for Mexico, which is trying to overcome its long history of knockout-stage disappointment.

Even though Carlo Ancelotti’s team secured their place in the Round of 16, they struggled to defeat Japan. After losing control in the first half, they took over in the second half by relying on crosses into the box. Against Norway, they may not have the same opportunity, as their opponents are also strong in the air and have a solid defense. For that reason, they may need to reshape their tactical approach.

As they have done throughout the 2026 World Cup, Norway could implement a fairly conservative approach, dropping deep to leave very little space for Brazil. In response, they could look to attack on the counter, with Antonio Nusa playing a key role in breaking forward through quick transitions. Erling Haaland will have plenty of room to exploit his greatest strength: Breaking quickly and attacking space, making Martin Ødegaard’s vision crucial.

When and at what time will Brazil vs. Norway be played?

Brazil will face Norway in the Round of 16 on Sunday, July 5, at 4:00 PM EST. It will be the third match of the round, following Paraguay vs France or Sweden and Canada vs Morocco. Nevertheless, the pressure is on Carlo Ancelotti’s team, who are considered top contenders. Moreover, they have a stellar roster that imposes them as favorites to secure their quarterfinals.

Ståle Solbakken’s team arrive as the surprise package, having secured their Round of 16 for the first time in 28 years. With just a promising team, they are only looking to make history, not having any pressure to be top contenders. Moreover, both sides will have enough time to prepare the game.

Which stadium will host Brazil vs. Norway?

New York/New Jersey Stadium, also known as MetLife Stadium, will host the match between Brazil and Norway. With a capacity of 82,500 spectators, this venue is one of the largest in the tournament. After hosting Super Bowl XLVIII, WrestleMania 29, and WrestleMania 35, this stadium has become a regular venue for world-class events.

For Haaland, this World Cup represents his first appearance on soccer’s biggest stage. Despite his lack of previous World Cup experience, the Manchester City striker had immediately shown why he is considered one of the most dangerous forwards in the world.

Norway had already impressed in Group I, finishing second behind France and securing qualification. The Manchester City star scored twice in two of the group stage matches, becoming one of the biggest stories of the tournament while helping Norway reach the knockout stage for the first time since 1998.

Haaland reaches another historic milestone for Norway

Against the Ivory Coast, Haaland once again showed why he has become the face of Norwegian soccer. The striker scored his 60th goal for Norway in only his 53rd appearance, reaching a landmark that highlights one of the greatest international scoring rates in modern soccer.

Before the match, Haaland already held Norway’s all-time goalscoring record. He had scored 59 goals in 52 matches, breaking the previous national record of 33 goals that had stood for 92 years.

His scoring numbers are extraordinary. Haaland has maintained a rate of more than one goal per game for Norway, becoming one of the most productive international players of his generation.

The forward’s consistency has been remarkable. Before facing the Elephants, he had scored in 12 consecutive competitive matches for Norway and found the net in 18 of his previous 21 competitive appearances for the national team.

Golden Boot race full of legends

Haaland’s goal against the Ivory Coast is his fifth at the tournament, and it has put him close to the top of the World Cup scoring charts. His battle with Mbappe has become one of the defining individual stories of the tournament.

Both players are chasing Messi’s six-goal lead, while also trying to guide their national teams toward a deep tournament run. Their rivalry represents the next era of soccer’s greatest attacking talents.

Match Overview

France and Sweden meet in one of the standout matchups of the World Cup knockout stage, with a place in the next round at stake. Led by Kylian Mbappe, Les Bleus cruised through the group stage and enter as one of the tournament favorites.

Sweden opened with a win over Tunisia but was humbled 5-1 by the Netherlands, though the Swedes remain confident their attack can trouble the two-time champions. With elimination on the line, this is a World Cup clash you won’t want to miss.

Ivory Coast and Norway meet at AT&T Stadium with both nations chasing their first-ever victory in a World Cup knockout match. While Norway arrives with Erling Haaland leading a dangerous attack, Ivory Coast hopes its talented squad can continue a historic campaign after finally escaping the group stage.

The match represents a major milestone for Ivory Coast. The national team reached the knockout rounds of the World Cup for the first time after finishing second in Group E behind Germany.

The Elephants collected six points during the group stage with victories over Ecuador and Curacao, while their only defeat came against Germany in a narrow 2-1 loss. That achievement ended years of frustration after Ivory Coast previously exited in the group stage during all three of its earlier World Cup appearances.

Coach Emerse Fae has built a team based on defensive discipline, attacking transitions, and a wide range of offensive options. The national team has shown that goals can come from different players, making selection decisions difficult even during the biggest matches.

The Amad Diallo decision surprises fans

The biggest lineup discussion before kickoff focused on Amad Diallo. The Manchester United winger was expected by many supporters to start after making a strong impact during Ivory Coast’s group-stage campaign.

However, Diallo was named among the substitutes for the Round of 32 clash against Norway, with Fae choosing Nicolas Pepe, Yan Diomande, and Yohan-Ange Bonny as the attacking options in the starting XI. The decision was not linked to an injury or fitness issue. Instead, it came down to tactical choices and Ivory Coast’s attacking depth.

Diallo had already shown his importance earlier in the tournament. After beginning as a substitute against Ecuador, he came off the bench and scored a dramatic late winner, proving he could change games when introduced.

Why Amad Diallo is starting from the bench

Ivory Coast’s attacking competition is one of the main reasons behind Diallo’s absence from the starting lineup. The national team has several dangerous players capable of creating chances, allowing Fae to use different approaches depending on the opponent.

Nicolas Pepe enters the Norway match in excellent form after scoring twice against Curacao. Yan Diomande had also become one of the biggest breakout stars of the tournament, using his speed and creativity to cause problems for opposing defenses.

Because of that, Diallo has been viewed as a powerful impact option rather than an automatic starter. His ability to attack tired defenders, carry the ball forward, and create moments late in matches gives Ivory Coast another weapon from the bench.

The tactical idea is clear: start with a balanced attacking structure and introduce Diallo when spaces appear. Against Norway’s physical defenders, his pace and dribbling could become even more dangerous in the second half.

Norway’s history at the World Cup has been short but memorable. The national team has qualified for the tournament only four times: 1938, 1994, 1998, and 2026.

The first appearance came in the 1938 World Cup in France. At that time, the tournament used a straight knockout format, and Norway faced eventual champions Italy in the opening round. The match finished 1-1 after normal time, but Italy eventually won 2-1 after extra time, ending Norway’s campaign immediately.

The 1994 World Cup in the United States brought one of the most unusual eliminations in tournament history. Norway defeated Mexico 1-0 but failed to reach the knockout stage because all four teams in their group finished level on points. The deciding factor was goals scored, leaving Norway painfully eliminated.

Four years later, Norway produced its most famous World Cup moment. During the 1998 tournament in France, the national team shocked defending champions Brazil with a dramatic 2-1 victory in the group stage. That result helped the country reach the knockout stage for the first time. However, the journey ended in the Round of 16 after a narrow 1-0 defeat against Italy.

Norway finally returns after 28-year wait

The 2026 World Cup marked Norway’s first appearance since 1998 and represented a major achievement for coach Stale Solbakken. After years of disappointment in qualifying campaigns, Solbakken finally built a team capable of competing at the highest level.

Norway dominated European qualifying extraordinarily. The national team won all eight qualifying matches, scored 37 goals, and conceded only five.

The attacking numbers have been historic, with Erling Haaland leading the way. The Manchester City striker scored 16 goals during qualifying, matching the record for most goals by a player in a World Cup qualifying campaign.

Norway’s best World Cup finish

Norway’s best World Cup result is reaching the Round of 16 in both 1938 and 1998. The national team has never progressed beyond that stage.

In the 2026 World Cup, Norway reached the knockout phase again by advancing to the Round of 32, marking another historic achievement after their long absence.

Although the team entered the tournament with ambitions of making a deep run, reaching the knockout stage already represents a major step forward.

The national team’s journey has also produced a unique World Cup record. Norway remains one of the few teams to have faced Brazil multiple times without losing, earning victories and draws against one of soccer’s greatest powers.

The national team arrived at the 2026 World Cup after a long absence from global competition and with a squad that combines experienced leaders with exciting young talent. After years of falling short despite producing legendary players, Ivory Coast entered the tournament determined to finally break through.

Before this tournament, Ivory Coast had qualified for three previous World Cups: 2006, 2010, and 2014. Despite having some of Africa’s most talented players, the national team was eliminated in the group stage every time. The 2006 tournament marked Ivory Coast’s first appearance on soccer’s biggest stage.

Led by Didier Drogba, Yaya Toure, and a golden generation of players, the Elephants were placed in a difficult group with Argentina and the Netherlands and were unable to reach the knockout rounds. Then, four years later in South Africa, Ivory Coast again faced a challenging group featuring Brazil and Portugal.

The national team earned four points and recorded a memorable 3-0 victory over North Korea, but it was still not enough to advance. The 2014 World Cup in Brazil produced the most painful exit. Ivory Coast needed only a draw against Greece in their final group match, but a late penalty ended their hopes and sent the Elephants home once again.

The breakthrough finally arrives in 2026

Despite those disappointments, Ivory Coast achieved a unique record before 2026. The national team had won at least one match in every World Cup tournament it had qualified for, showing consistent competitiveness even without progressing further.

The 2026 World Cup changed everything for Ivory Coast. Under coach Emerse Fae, the national team finally achieved the milestone that previous generations could not reach.

Ivory Coast advanced beyond the group stage for the first time in its history, reaching the Round of 32. The achievement ended a long wait for the Elephants, who had previously been unable to escape the first phase of the tournament.

The national team qualified after finishing second in Group E behind Germany. Ivory Coast collected six points thanks to victories over Ecuador and Curacao, while their only defeat came in a narrow 2-1 loss against Germany.

The campaign showed the balance that Fae has built. Ivory Coast remained defensively strong while relying on talented attackers to create moments in transition.

Ivory Coast’s best-ever World Cup finish

Before 2026, Ivory Coast’s best World Cup results were all group-stage appearances. The golden generation featuring Drogba came close, but never managed to reach the knockout rounds.

The Round of 32 appearance in the 2026 World Cup is officially the best finish in Ivory Coast’s World Cup history. It represents the first time the Elephants have moved beyond the group stage and created a new benchmark for future teams.

The achievement also places Ivory Coast among the African nations that have broken through on soccer’s biggest stage. The national team now has the opportunity to continue building its legacy and prove that this generation can achieve what previous stars could not.

According to the FIFA Men’s World Ranking, Ivory Coast are ranked 31st place with 1,565.47 points. After their latest victory over Cape Verde, they have escalated two positions in the ranking. In recent years, they have managed to significantly improve their international standing compared to their 75th position in March-May of 2004. However, they have yet to match their highest-ever ranking, which was 12th in February of 2003.

After several years without being able to regain their form, head coach Emerse Fae has managed to rebuild a very promising project with Ivory Coast. Despite this, they still remain behind their opponents in the FIFA Rankings. Ståle Solbakken’s team are ranked 23rd with 1,594.04 points, gaining several places compared to the start of the tournament. Nevertheless, Ivory Coast could spring an upset with a victory, shining on the counterattack.

Ivory Coast have proven to be one of the most solid teams defensively. Conceding only two goals in the group stage, they will look to limit Norway in every attacking aspect. In addition, they are capable of making very quick transitions, breaking efficiently on the counterattack. Facing an opponent that seeks to dominate possession, they need to be clinical with the few chances they create to score.

Amad Diallo and Yan Diomande set to shine vs Norway

Despite their solid group stage, Ivory Coast once again enter the match against Norway as the underdogs. Without being an offensive powerhouse, they need to be very solid defensively, containing Erling Haaland’s attacking threat. With this in mind, Emerse Fae’s team keep Amad Diallo and Yan Diomande as their main attacking options, both of whom could make the difference in the Round of 32 clash.

Ivory Coast base their attacking approach on counterattacks, so the transitions of Christopher Opéri and Guéla Doué at full-back are essential. If they can find Diallo and Diomande making runs into space, they can be decisive by dribbling and creating space to score. Although they are not the national team’s top scorers, they have created plenty of space for Nicolas Pépé and Franck Kessié, making them the team’s key attacking axis.

According to the FIFA Men’s World Ranking, Norway are ranked 23rd place with 1594.04 points. They have escalated eight positions in the ranking despite their 4-1 loss to France. In recent years, they have managed to significantly improve their international standing compared to their 88th position in July 2017. However, they have yet to match their highest-ever ranking, which was 2nd in July–August 1995.

Under Ståle Solbakken, Norway are enjoying one of the best periods in their recent history, with stars such as Erling Haaland, Alexander Sørloth, Martin Ødegaard, among others. In addition, they are ranked higher than their opponent, Ivory Coast, in the rankings. Emerse Fae’s team are ranked 31st with 1,565.47 points in the FIFA Rankings, climbing positions but still well behind their opponents.

Although Norway usually play an attacking, counterattacking style, they could adapt to dominate possession. Ivory Coast are a team that usually sit deep defensively, allowing their opponents to control the ball. Because of this, Martin Ødegaard and Fredrik Aursnes could be crucial, as they are capable of controlling the tempo of the game and finding the forwards in space. However, the wingers will be key to breaking down the opposition’s defense.

Haaland could face a pretty tough test against Ivory Coast

Throughout his career, Erling Haaland has proven to be one of the most prolific strikers in the world. However, he usually shines against opponents that leave space, allowing him to break quickly on the counter and take advantage of open areas. Unlike many of his previous opponents, Ivory Coast are a very well-organized defensive team that leave very little space. Therefore, he may not have his best match.

Without space to counterattack and facing a solid defense, Haaland would have to shine in tight spaces, something that is quite difficult for his style of play. Therefore, he would have to take advantage of his aerial ability to score and make the difference. In addition, Norway would have chances to attack into space by winning the ball during Ivory Coast’s counterattacks. If they manage to do so, he could make an enormous difference.

Match Overview

With a Round of 16 berth on the line, Ivory Coast and Norway square off in a win-or-go-home clash after strong group-stage performances. Ivory Coast enters as a confident underdog looking to pull off a major upset.

On the other hand, Norway, led by Erling Haaland, advanced despite a final group-stage loss to France and now aims to extend its World Cup run. Expect a tightly contested battle with everything at stake. Don’t miss this thrilling knockout matchup.

The Netherlands had broken through in the 71st minute, when Cody Gakpo finished off a rebound after a great assist from West Ham’s Crysencio Summerville.

But Morocco refused to fold, drawing level right as stoppage time began through a long ball that found Issa Diop, who rose highest to head it past Bart Verbruggen and force this Round of 32 tie into extra time.

Neither side could find a breakthrough across the additional 30 minutes, sending the match to penalties to decide who advances. After a dramatic penalty shootout, Ismael Saibari converted his spot kick to seal a 3-2 win and send his side through to the next round.

With the win, Mohamed Ouahbi’s men continue to build on the momentum of their historic run to the semifinals at Qatar 2022, proving once again that they remain one of the most dangerous teams left in the competition.

Morocco’s Round of 16 rival and venue

Morocco now know exactly where their journey continues: they will face Canada in the Round of 16 on July 4 at Houston Stadium, after the co-hosts edged past South Africa 1-0 courtesy of a late Stephen Eustaquio goal.

It will mark Canada’s first-ever appearance at this stage of a World Cup, where they’ll face a strong side looking to claim its first title after clinching fourth place in the last edition.

For the Netherlands, the heartbreaking shootout defeat brings their tournament to an end, closing the book on a campaign that included an emphatic 5-1 win over Sweden and top spot in Group F, even as Ronald Koeman’s men fall short of matching their runner-up finish from 2010.

The incident occurred during a corner kick, when van Hecke went down on his own near the box, putting him in the wrong place at the wrong time as a Moroccan player accidentally kicked him in the head.

The defender was left with a visible cut on his forehead, with blood quickly running down his face, in a clash that has been notably physical from the opening whistle.

Medical staff rushed onto the field to treat the wound, and van Hecke was eventually able to jog to the sideline under his own power before being cleared to continue the match.

Canada awaits the winner

Whoever comes through this physical encounter in Monterrey will not get much time to recover. The winner of the game between the Netherlands and Morocco is set to face Canada in the Round of 16 on July 4, at Houston Stadium, after the co-hosts edged past South Africa 1-0 thanks to a late goal from Stephen Eustaquio.

It would mark Canada’s first-ever appearance in that stage of a World Cup, where Jesse Marsch’s men will have a hard test from whichever side advances out of this Round of 32 battle.

Speaking to MagentaTV as a television pundit, Klopp reflected on the squad’s systemic issues and the agonizing defeat suffered at Houston Stadium: “There are 500,000 ways to win a football match. You just have to find one. There was only one goal, one dream, and it has burst. It was dramatic. We didn’t function.“

While Germany dominated the tempo and controlled 75% of the possession, Klopp pinpointed Die Mannschaft‘s recurring struggles to translate individual quality into clinical attacking production, noting that the team “created too little.” Out of Germany’s 21 total shots across 120 grueling minutes, only six found the target, with Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill standing tall to anchor the upset.

The Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull also highlighted the psychological weight of the match, pointing out that the immense pressure sat entirely on the European giants. “Paraguay had the opportunity to achieve something. Germany had the pressure to achieve something. Everyone in the stadium thought: Now they’re going to turn it around! But we didn’t. We let them off the hook,” Klopp said.

With 2026 likely marking the final World Cup cycle for several veteran mainstays like Manuel Neuer and Antonio Rudiger, Klopp emphasized that a complete overhaul is required at the foundational level: “We can talk about the DFB. We one hundred percent have to change a few things. We can start with the U10s and wait a few years to see what comes out at the top.“

Whether Klopp will be part of that eventual rebuilding process remains to be seen, as Nagelsmann firmly stated after the match that he has no intention of resigning from his post. With the former Liverpool boss locked into his corporate Red Bull role through 2029 and Nagelsmann’s managerial contract running through 2028, any immediate shakeup in the German dugout would require a heavy-handed intervention from the DFB board.

The disallowed goal to Tah, a bad call according to Klopp

The defining controversy of the Round of 32 clash came in extra time with Jonathan Tah’s disallowed goal. As the center-back rose to power home a header that would have given Germany a 2-1 lead in the 104th minute, VAR instructed referee Jalal Jayed to review a potential foul on goalkeeper Orlando Gill, whose path was deemed obstructed by Waldemar Anton.

The minor interference was enough for the referee to waive off the goal, paving the way for Germany’s eventual shootout demise, a decision Klopp fiercely disputed: “If this goal is illegal, Arsenal won’t become English champions. We win the game if that goal stands. The referee made a clear mistake!“

Reactions across social media echoed Klopp’s frustration, frequently drawing comparisons to the physical nature of modern Premier League officiating. Former Germany international Ilkay Gundogan shared a similar sentiment online, pairing his frustration over the call with a dose of harsh self-criticism regarding the team’s flat performance on the pitch.

Scaloni opted to start Messi on the bench in the 3-1 win over Jordan, a decision made with qualification already secured, giving his captain some rest before bringing him on in the second half, where he went on to score the final goal.

With the knockout stage now upon them, there is little doubt that Messi will be back in the starting lineup, alongside players like Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister, who are all expected to keep their spots.

However, according to Argentine insider Gaston Edul of TyC Sports, Scaloni is still weighing three selection battles: Nicolas Otamendi or Cristian Romero at center back, Nicolas Tagliafico or Facundo Medina at left back, and Julian Alvarez or Lautaro Martinez up front.

Breaking down Scaloni’s doubts

The uncertainty at center back stems from Romero picking up a knee issue during the Austria match, with Scaloni substituting him in the second half against Jordan for Otamendi as a precautionary measure.

However, reports indicate that the Tottenham defender has since trained fully alongside his teammates and is available for selection, meaning Scaloni could still hand him a starting spot if he sees fit.

At left back, Edul reports that Tagliafico has a strong chance of keeping his place after playing the full 90 minutes against Jordan, having missed the first two matches against Algeria and Austria due to a muscle strain.

Finally, the last selection battle appears to be tilting toward Martinez in the starting role up front. The Inter Milan striker is reportedly in better physical condition than Julian Alvarez, who arrived at the tournament carrying a left ankle issue.

Alvarez managed to log minutes in the first two matches before starting against Jordan, where he failed to make a significant impact, leaving the door open for Martinez to start in the XI.

Julio Enciso opened the scoring for Paraguay in the 43rd minute, filtering into the box to bury a sharp header off a well-placed cross from Matias Galarza. While Kai Havertz later answered with a header of his own to equalize for Germany, Die Mannschaft couldn’t find a regulation winner, ultimately falling in the ensuing shootout to seal their elimination.

The loss goes down as one of Germany‘s most bitter World Cup disappointments, marking their first elimination by a South American nation in over two decades. The last time the Germans were sent packing by a CONMEBOL team was the 2002 World Cup final in Yokohama, where Ronaldo Nazario scooped up the Golden Boot by scoring both goals in Brazil‘s 2-0 triumph.

Since that 2002 final, Germany’s World Cup exits had all come from European foes, falling in the semifinals to Italy in 2006 and Spain in 2010 before lifting the trophy against Argentina in 2014. While Die Mannschaft did endure humiliating, early first-round departures in both 2018 and 2022, those failures notoriously occurred during the group stage rather than the win-or-go-home knockout rounds.

In fact, Germany’s modern knockout record against South American opposition had been nearly flawless prior to Monday’s collapse. Before that 2002 defeat to Brazil, their last knockout-stage loss to a CONMEBOL nation also occurred on the grandest stage, the 1986 World Cup final, when they fell to Diego Maradona’s iconic Argentina squad.

South American teams prove to be Germany’s Kryptonite in 2026

Despite the lack of high-quality chances Paraguay generated throughout the match, Germany simply could not dismantle the defensive wall the South American side constructed. For a European powerhouse that spent years dominating the international landscape, CONMEBOL opponents have officially become a massive headache for Die Mannschaft this summer.

After opening the tournament with a 7-1 thrashing of Curacao and a 2-1 win over the Ivory Coast, Germany ran into a buzzsaw against Ecuador, dropping a 2-1 decision that marked their first-ever group-stage loss to a South American team. Now, by crashing out against Paraguay, the Germans have also seen a legendary streak snapped: since the modern Round of 16 format was introduced in 1986, Germany had never lost its opening match of the knockout stage.

The Netherlands cruised through Group F as winners, opening with a 2-2 draw against Japan before bouncing back with a 5-1 thrashing of Sweden and a 3-1 win over Tunisia.

Those results gave Ronald Koeman’s side seven points and top spot in the group. For this crucial game, Virgil van Dijk will start and continue captaining the side, having anchored the Dutch defense without missing a minute through the group stage.

Morocco, meanwhile, had to work harder for their place in the knockouts, finishing second in a brutal Group C behind Brazil. The Atlas Lions held the five-time champions to a 1-1 draw in their opener before beating Scotland 1-0 and Haiti 4-2, finishing on seven points but settling for second on goal difference.

For the decisive game, Achraf Hakimi will also start, having been one of Morocco’s most important attacking outlets from right-back throughout the group stage, with no fitness concerns reported.

Netherlands confirmed lineup

Ronald Koeman will once again deploy the same group that demolished Sweden and beat Tunisia to close out the group stage, with Brian Brobbey keeping his place as the focal point of the attack after scoring three goals in his last two starts.

Netherlands’ confirmed starting XI: Bart Verbruggen; Denzel Dumfries, Jan Paul van Hecke, Virgil van Dijk, Nathan Ake, Micky van de Ven; Ryan Gravenberch, Frenkie de Jong; Crysencio Summerville, Brian Brobbey, Cody Gakpo.

Morocco confirmed lineup

Mohamed Ouahbi will make no changes to the group that beat Haiti to close out the group stage, with Ismael Saibari leading the line after scoring three goals already at this tournament.

Morocco’s confirmed starting XI: Yassine Bounou; Achraf Hakimi, Issa Diop, Chadi Riad, Noussair Mazraoui; Ayyoub Bouaddi, Neil El Aynaoui; Brahim Diaz, Azzedine Ounahi, Bilal El Khannouss; Ismael Saibari.

In a match where Die Mannschaft stood as heavy pre-kickoff favorites, Paraguay broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute by forcing a high turnover, allowing Matias Galarza to deliver a pinpoint cross that Julio Enciso emphatically headed home. With Paraguay sitting deep to preserve the lead in the second half, Florian Wirtz unpicked the lock with a cross that Kai Havertz glancingly deflected with his head to level the score.

With regulation resolving in a stalemate, the match proceeded to extra time, where Germany‘s Jonathan Tah seemingly poked home a 2-1 winner, only for the goal to be disallowed due to a foul on Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill. In the ensuing high-stakes penalty shootout, Paraguay ultimately held their nerve to claim the monumental victory.

Paraguay’s next opponent

With their spot in the World Cup Round of 16 officially locked down, the South American underdogs will advance to face the winner of the blockbuster knockout clash between France and Sweden, who square off the following day. The Round of 16 matchup is scheduled for Saturday, July 4th at 5 p.m. ET at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

France cruised into the knockout rounds on the back of a perfect group-stage campaign, topping their group with convincing victories over Senegal (3-1), Iraq (3-0), and Norway (4-1). Conversely, Sweden squeaked through as one of the tournament’s top third-place finishers, weathering an inconsistent 4-point group run that featured a 5-1 thrashing of Tunisia, a heavy 5-1 loss to the Netherlands, and a gritty 1-1 draw with Japan.

Sitting at No. 2 in the FIFA World Rankings, France enters the knockouts as a premier title favorite for the 2026 crown. Their terrifying frontline is spearheaded by Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, who have logged four goals apiece as Les Bleus launch their pursuit of a third consecutive World Cup final appearance.

Sweden, meanwhile, is navigating a transitional and inconsistent period under manager Graham Potter after qualifying via the grueling UEFA playoffs. Across his first nine matches at the helm, the Englishman has posted a balanced 3-3-3 record, with star strikers Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres still searching for their first goals of this World Cup, leaving Anthony Elanga to carry the torch as the squad’s primary attacking catalyst.

Japan managed to surprise Brazil in the first half. Without dominating possession, they were very dangerous, as they broke quickly on the counterattack.Because of this, Brazil were unable to recover control of the midfield, leaving plenty of space. Kaishu Sano scored an important goal to give Japan the lead in the first half. However, they were unable to maintain their intensity and were outplayed by their opponents in the second half.

After Carlo Ancelotti’s adjustments, Brazil regained control of the match in the second half. Constantly pressing their opponents, they wore them down physically, forcing them deep into their own penalty area. Taking advantage of Japan’s weakness in the air, they delivered a series of crosses that resulted in Casemiro’s equalizer. After that, the match changed completely, but it was Gabriel Martinelli who changed everything.

Recognizing their attacking superiority, Brazil decided to substitute Matheus Cunha to give the team more explosiveness with Gabriel Martinelli. After numerous attacks into the penalty area, Rayan recovered the ball in the opposition’s box and passed it to Bruno Guimarães. Efficiently, he then found Martinelli, who controlled the ball and finished across goal, scoring the winning goal in the final minute. With this, they secured their place in the Round of 16.

Despite numerous injuries, Morocco have remained one of the best teams at the 2026 World Cup. Playing an attacking style, they come into the match against the Netherlands as the underdogs. Led by Ismael Saibari and Brahim Díaz, they will look to break through the opposition’s high press and find the back of the net. However, Achraf Hakimi could be the difference-maker, making runs into space and exploiting the gaps behind the opposition’s defense.

Under Ronald Koeman, the Netherlands have emerged as one of the most attacking teams in the tournament. With a possession-based style of play, they create space in the opposition’s defense. To achieve this, Cody Gakpo and Brian Brobbey need to be highly clinical, as Morocco could capitalize on any counterattack to score. Because of this, Virgil van Dijk and Jan Paul van Hecke will need to deliver strong defensive performances.

What happens if Netherlands win over Morocco?

In case the Netherlands secure a victory over Morocco, they will immediately secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16. With this, Ronald Koeman’s team would reaffirm their status as one of the top contenders. They would face Canada on July 4 at 1:00 PM EST at Houston Stadium. Nonetheless, Mohamed Ouahbi’s team would disappoint after finishing fourth in the previous edition.

What happens if Netherlands draw to Morocco?

If the Netherlands and Morocco draw after 90 minutes, they would have to determine the winner of the tie in extra time. Therefore, they would play two 15-minute periods. In case there is still no winner, the match would go to a penalty shootout, where the winner would be decided and would face Canada on July 4.

What happens if Netherlands lose to Morocco?

A defeat for the Netherlands against Japan would eliminate them immediately from the 2026 World Cup. With this, Ronald Koeman’s team would really disappoint fans. Meanwhile, Mohamed Ouahbi’s team would regain their status as one of the top contenders after the sudden changes that affected their consistency before the World Cup. Nonetheless, they would still have a long way to go to equal their Qatar 2022 performance.

The Atlas Lions sit at No.6 in the latest FIFA World Rankings, edging out their upcoming opponent by a single spot. Mohamed Ouahbi’s squad had to work for their place in the knockouts, opening Group C with a gritty 1-1 stalemate against Brazil before grinding out a 1-0 win over Scotland and finishing the job with a 4-2 victory against Haiti.

That tally of seven points was enough for second in the group, with only goal difference separating them from a Brazilian side that finished above them.

Standing in their way is the Netherlands ranked just behind at No. 7, and arriving with considerably more attacking firepower on display. Ronald Koeman’s group stumbled out of the gate with a 2-2 draw against Japan, but quickly found their rhythm, blowing past Sweden 5-1 and closing out their campaign with a 3-1 win over Tunisia.

Morocco eyeing redemption and another deep run

Few nations have captured global attention quite like Morocco did during their unforgettable march through Qatar 2022, becoming the first team from Africa to ever reach a World Cup semifinal.

Along the way, they dismantled some of Europe’s biggest names, eliminating Belgium, Spain, and Portugal in succession before their dream run was finally halted by France, with a fourth-place finish following defeat to Croatia in the third-place playoff.

That golden generation has only grown stronger since. Achraf Hakimi remains a defensive cornerstone, while breakout talent Ismael Saibari, already with three goals to his name through the group stage, gives Morocco a sharper attacking edge than the side that shocked the world four years ago.

The Netherlands currently sit at No.7 in the FIFA World Rankings. The Dutch opened with a 2-2 draw against Japan, before bouncing back in style with a 5-1 thrashing of Sweden and a 3-1 win over Tunisia to close out the group stage.

Those results gave them seven points and top spot in Group F, with forward Brian Brobbey emerging as the team’s leading scorer through the first round with three goals.

Morocco, by contrast, head into this crucial game ranked just one spot higher at No. 6 in the rankings, making this one of the most evenly matched ties of the entire Round of 32.

The Atlas Lions held five-time champions Brazil to a 1-1 draw in their opener, before following it up with a 1-0 win over Scotland and a 4-2 victory over Haiti, finishing on seven points as well as Brazil, but settling for second place in Group C behind them on goal difference.

Netherlands chasing a first title after three runner-up finishes

Despite being one of the most consistently dangerous nations in World Cup history, the Dutch have never lifted the trophy, falling short in the final on three separate occasions, in 1974, 1978, and most recently in 2010.

Ronald Koeman’s current group will be eager to use that long wait as motivation, knowing that another deep run through the knockout stage could finally put the Netherlands’ name on the one trophy that has eluded them for over half a century.

Gabriel Martinelli has scored the latest goal in World Cup history, excluding extra time. After scoring in the 95th minute against Paraguay, he has surpassed Francesco Totti, Nacer Chadli, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, Edgar Davids, and Stephen Eustáquio, who made up the list in that order, according to MisterChip, a well-known soccer statistician, via X.

Unlike Totti, Chadli, Huntelaar, Davis, and Eustáquio, Gabriel Martinelli is a regular substitute for Brazil. So far at the 2026 World Cup, he has played just 77 minutes across four matches. Despite that, he has proven to be one of the most decisive wingers in the world, making the most of every opportunity he gets. With Ivory Coast or Norway as Brazil’s possible opponents, he could have a bigger role in his second World Cup appearance.

Gabriel Martinelli did not arrive at the 2026 World Cup as an undisputed starter for Arsenal. During his team’s historic season, he played 53 matches, scoring 11 goals and providing 7 assists. Although he delivered solid performances, he had to share minutes with Leandro Trossard. Therefore, he now has a great opportunity to establish his talent with Brazil at the tournament, aiming to become one of the team’s stars in the near future.

Gabriel Martinelli faces tough fight for Brazil starting spot

Since Carlo Ancelotti’s arrival at Brazil, Vinícius Jr. has been the team’s most important player, enjoying creative freedom. Because of this, he is usually an undisputed starter, playing the full 90 minutes and leaving Gabriel Martinelli with few opportunities to play. However, Martinelli would have to adapt to any attacking position if he wants more playing time, making his situation much more difficult.

With no place on the wings, Martinelli would have to compete with Lucas Paquetá and Neymar for a spot as the attacking midfielder. Unlike them, he would allow Vinícius the freedom to drift inside while he occupies the flank. As a result, Brazil would gain numerical superiority in attack, which is ideal against defensive teams. Nevertheless, he may not start throughout the tournament, as he is not even the second-choice option in several positions.

In case he manages to score another goal or provide key assists, Martinelli could force Ancelotti to rethink his tactical approach. However, he would have very few minutes to achieve that, meaning he would need standout performances against Norway or Ivory Coast, depending on the result.

Match Overview

The Netherlands and Morocco meet in one of the standout Round of 32 matchups, with a coveted spot in the Round of 16 on the line. Morocco enter after collecting seven points in the group stage, missing first place only on goal difference.

Meanwhile, the Dutch also earned seven points and finished atop their group. With both teams carrying strong momentum and plenty of talent into the knockout rounds, this clash has all the makings of a tightly contested battle.

Die Mannschaft has finally snapped a miserable tournament streak that followed their 2014 championship run, during which they repeatedly failed to advance past the opening round. Both in Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022, the European giants suffered humiliating group-stage eliminations that shocked the soccer world.

Julian Nagelsmann’s squad started the current campaign on the right foot, cruising to a 7-1 win over Curacao and a gritty 2-1 victory over the Ivory Coast. However, a stunning 2-1 defeat to Ecuador, marking the first time a South American nation has ever beaten Germany in the World Cup group stage, has raised serious questions heading into the knockouts, especially against a stingy Paraguay team looking to make history of its own.

What happens if Germany wins over Paraguay?

If Germany secures a victory over Paraguay today, they will punch their ticket to the Round of 16 and keep their championship aspirations alive, while the South American nation’s tournament run will officially come to an end. Die Mannschaft would then get five days of rest before playing on July 4th at Philadelphia Stadium against the winner of the blockbuster France vs. Sweden matchup.

What happens if Germany draws against Paraguay?

If Germany is unable to break the deadlock against Paraguay during the regulation 90 minutes, the match will head into extra time, consisting of two grueling 15-minute halves. Should the stalemate persist after 120 total minutes of play, the European and South American sides will settle the score via a high-stakes penalty shootout to determine who advances.

What happens if Germany loses against Paraguay?

A loss for Germany against Paraguay would result in immediate elimination from the 2026 World Cup. Because the tournament has shifted into the single-elimination knockout rounds, this is a strict win-or-go-home scenario, meaning a defeat would instantly end Germany’s summer while sending Paraguay to the Round of 16 in historic fashion.

Historically, the matchup favors Germany when looking at past encounters against Paraguay. The lone previous World Cup meeting between the two nations came in the Round of 16 back at Korea-Japan 2002, where the Germans ground out a narrow 1-0 victory over the South Americans, courtesy of an 88th-minute match-winner from Oliver Neuville that finally broke down a resilient Paraguayan defense.

Germany currently sit at No.12 in the FIFA World Rankings, dropping two spots since the start of the tournament. Julian Nagelsmann’s side opened with an emphatic 7-1 win over Curacao, followed it up with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Ivory Coast. In their final group match, they fell 2-1 to Ecuador, though it had no real impact, as they finished the group stage with six points and top spot in Group E.

Paraguay, by contrast, head into this one as significant underdogs on paper. The South Americans currently sit at No.37 in the FIFA having climbed four spots after their victory over Turkey in the group stage.

Despite a tricky group, Paraguay advanced as one of the eight best third-placed teams, setting up a daunting first knockout test against one of the tournament’s traditional heavyweights.

Germany returns to the knockout stage

Beyond the rankings and the result against Paraguay, simply being back in the knockout rounds represents a notable milestone for Germany. The four-time champions failed to escape the group stage in both 2018 and 2022, a stunning fall from grace for a nation that had reached at least the semifinals in eight of its previous ten World Cup appearances before that.

Paraguay’s historic return to the World Cup stage

Regardless of today’s result, Paraguay have already exceeded expectations simply by making it back to the World Cup for the first time since 2010. Their best-ever finish came at that very tournament in South Africa, where La Albirroja reached the quarterfinals, while they’ve also made the Round of 16 on three separate occasions throughout their history.

After suffering a medial ligament injury in his left ankle against Ivory Coast, Nico Schlotterbeck will be absent from Germany’s defensive line. Unlike other cases in the tournament, he will not return to the national team, as his recovery is reportedly expected to take two months. As a result, head coach Julian Nagelsmann loses his defensive leader for one of Germany’s most important matches of the 2026 World Cup.

Julian Nagelsmann will not be able to replace Schlotterbeck in Germany’s 2026 World Cup roster, as the deadline to do so has already passed. As a result, they will have to rely on Jonathan Tah, Antonio Rüdiger, Malick Thiaw, and Waldemar Anton as alternatives in defense. Nevertheless, Nico has decided to remain with the national team, staying with the squad and offering support as a leader in the dressing room.

While Paraguay are not a brilliant attacking team, they could cause significant problems for Julian Nagelsmann’s team through their aerial play. There, Nico Schlotterbeck’s absence could be felt greatly, as he is one of the tallest players in the defensive line. In addition, they will also be without his outstanding ability to play out from the back, something that very few defenders in the squad can offer, forcing structural changes.

Who will take Schlotterbeck spot in Germany’s defense vs Paraguay?

After the evident defensive problems against Ecuador, Germany arrive with major warning signs ahead of their match against Paraguay. Because of this, head coach Julian Nagelsmann has decided to continue with Antonio Rüdiger as Jonathan Tah’s ideal partner. Although both are very experienced players, they are not as impressive in building out from the back as Nico Schlotterbeck.

With less effectiveness in playing out from the back, Germany will rely on Joshua Kimmich as constant support for the defensive line. However, Aleksandar Pavlović will have to take on a more important role in progressing the ball, as he is the strongest in that aspect. Facing a very solid defensive line, the defense will have to play a key role, looking for through balls or trying to gain an advantage through aerial play.

Musiala will begin the match on the substitutes’ bench following a tactical choice by head coach Julian Nagelsmann. The manager has opted to sacrifice the playmaker’s flair and creativity in favor of a more physical, robust starting lineup designed to go toe-to-toe with a notoriously stingy Paraguayan defense.

To execute this game plan, Nagelsmann has moved Kai Havertz into the attacking midfield role behind the striker, the space typically occupied by Musiala. Meanwhile, the vacant No. 9 position will be filled by Deniz Undav, who has emerged as Die Mannschaft‘s top scorer with three goals this tournament and will serve as the physical target man to battle Paraguay‘s center-backs.

This marks the first time in Musiala’s World Cup career that he will start a match on the bench. The Bayern Munich star was a locked-in starter throughout the entire group stage, just as he was during Germany’s pre-tournament friendlies against Sweden and the USMNT.

After netting a goal in Germany’s dominant 7-1 opening win over Curacao, Musiala followed up with two quiet performances against the Ivory Coast and Ecuador. His inability to dictate the tempo or generate high-quality chances in those subsequent matches ultimately prompted the 23-year-old’s drop from Nagelsmann’s starting XI.

Nagelsmann’s thoughts on Paraguay

During his pre-match press conference, Nagelsmann highlighted the unique challenges posed by the South American side: “They play a very defensive football, they have a direct style of play, and they are in very good physical condition. They are an uncomfortable opponent for us and will demand a lot from us.“

The German manager emphasized Paraguay’s proficiency in direct long-ball execution, keeping a compact defensive block, and aggressively fighting for second balls. Anticipating a grueling, physical battle, Nagelsmann structured a lineup built to handle those aerial demands and ground duels, a tactical shift that ultimately forced Musiala out of the XI.

Germany enters the knockout stage following a group stage campaign that included dominant wins over Curacao (7-1) and the Ivory Coast (2-1), alongside a shocking 2-1 upset at the hands of Ecuador, marking the first time a South American nation has ever defeated them in the group stage. After snapping their post-2014 curse to finally advance past the opening round, the Germans are now focused on restoring the program to its traditional powerhouse status.

Paraguay, meanwhile, punched its ticket to the knockout rounds as one of the tournament’s top third-place finishers. La Albirroja rebounded from a heavy 4-1 loss against the USMNT to secure a crucial 1-0 win over Turkey and a gritty, scoreless draw against Australia. Competing in their first World Cup in 16 years, the South American side is aiming to replicate their historic 2010 run, which saw them reach the quarterfinals.

In a major boost for Paraguay, star playmaker Miguel Almiron returns to head coach Gustavo Alfaro’s starting XI. The Atlanta United star was issued a costly red card during the group stage match against Turkey, forcing him to sit out the group finale against Australia due to a one-game suspension. With his ban now served, Almirón slides right back into the lineup to spearhead La Albirroja‘s attack.

Nagelsmann calls for a ‘perfect match’ against Paraguay

Having conceded just twice during the group stage, Paraguay rode a resilient, defense-first identity into the knockout rounds, presenting a structural blueprint that will be incredibly difficult to break down. For Nagelsmann, navigating this defensive minefield means Germany will need to execute flawless football to avoid another unexpected setback.

During Sunday’s pregame press conference, Nagelsmann broke down Paraguay’s direct, physical approach and issued a clear directive to his squad: “They try to stay compact, win their duels, and look to contest the second balls. When they win that second ball, they play direct, trying to look for space in behind. They have very good players, they defend well, and they are strong, physical footballers. We need a perfect match tomorrow.”

Confirmed lineups for Germany and Paraguay

Germany’s confirmed lineup (4-2-3-1): Manuel Neuer; Joshua Kimmich, Antonio Rudiger, Jonathan Tah, Nathaniel Brown; Felix Nmecha, Aleksandar Pavlovic; Leroy Sane, Kai Havertz, Florian Wirtz; Deniz Undav.
Head coach: Julian Nagelsmann.

Paraguay’s confirmed lineup (4-5-1): Orlando Gill; Juan Caceres, Gustavo Gomez, Jose Canale, Junior Alonso; Miguel Almiron, Damian Bobadilla, Andres Cubas, Matias Galarza Fonda, Julio Enciso; Gabriel Avalos.
Head coach: Gustavo Alfaro.

“I was waiting for extra time to bring on Neymar. I spoke with him. If we weren’t winning, or if the match was still tied, he was coming on in the 60th or 65th minute. But we were ahead, and I didn’t want to change the structure, because the team had control of the game,” Ancelotti said.

During the match, Ancelotti brought on Endrick at the start of the second half, then introduced Gabriel Martinelli in the 66th minute. The Arsenal forward ended up being decisive, scoring the late winning goal that sent Brazil through to the next round.

Ancelotti also addressed Lucas Paqueta and Casemiro, who left the field with some physical discomfort. “We have to evaluate them tomorrow, it was a very demanding match,” the coach said regarding the two midfielders.

Brazil’s next rival

Having gotten past Japan, Brazil’s attention now turns to the Round of 16, where they will face the winner of Ivory Coast vs. Norway, who meet each other on Tuesday in the Round of 32. The match is set for Sunday, July 5, at New York New Jersey Stadium.

Whether Ancelotti’s side draw the Ivorians or Erling Haaland’s Norway, Brazil will know their next opponent only after that tie is settled, with both nations carrying genuine attacking threats that could pose a very different kind of challenge than the one Japan presented.

Reflecting this tournament progress on the live leaderboard index, Paraguay has climbed to a live, unofficial position of 37th in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking. While La Albirroja officially stepped on North American soil occupying the 41st global seat on June 11, their hard-fought path out of the initial stage of the 2026 World Cup has forced an upward trend in the algorithm.

Defying the odds to continue their campaign means their baseline metrics are trending in the right direction just as they run headfirst into a traditional elite power.

The Round of 32 Seeding Equation

The challenge ahead is clearly outlined by a massive numerical gulf on the international ladder. Germany commands the 12th spot globally on the official leaderboard, carrying a dominant tier of 1,726.22 points.

While the paper metrics present a clear separation, Paraguay’s defensive growth since their opening matchday has given them a distinct competitive identity.

Comparative Knockout Baseline & Global Rank

Gustavo Alfaro’s side shook off a heavy 4-1 opening blowout against the United States to secure their survival by executing back-to-back clean sheets. A crucial 1-0 victory over Turkiye followed by a gritty 0-0 stalemate with Australia allowed them to claim one of the highly coveted third-place wildcard tickets.

Historic context

Paraguay achieved its absolute competitive peak back in 2001, when a golden generation briefly drove them to a historic peak of 8th in the world. Conversely, their absolute lowest floor came during a severe modern transition period that saw them plummet to 103rd globally.

Because World Cup knockout ties carry the highest possible match-weight multiplier in the FIFA calculation matrix, the pitch in the Round of 32 functions as a high-yield point environment. A defeat against a giant like Germany carries almost zero mathematical penalty for a 37th-ranked underdog, giving Paraguay complete freedom to play without fear.

Japan struck first in the 29th minute, with Kaishu Sano capitalizing on a costly turnover to anchor a lethal counterattack, driving a powerful shot from outside the box to open the scoring. Brazil finally found its equalizer in the 56th minute when veteran midfielder Casemiro rose to meet a perfectly placed cross from Gabriel Magalhaes, burying a precise header into the net.

The decisive moment arrived deep in stoppage time when Bruno Guimaraes threaded a brilliant pass into the box to find Gabriel Martinelli, who unleashed a fierce strike to complete the turnaround. While Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki managed to get a hand on the ball, he couldn’t generate enough deflection to keep it out, sealing Japan’s heartbreaking elimination from the World Cup.

Brazil’s next opponent

With their spot in the Round of 16 officially locked down, Brazil will advance to face the winner of the knockout clash between the Ivory Coast and Norway, which will be decided on June 30 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The ensuing Round of 16 matchup is scheduled for Sunday, July 5th at 4 p.m. ET at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Both the Ivory Coast and Norway reached the knockout rounds by finishing as runners-up in their respective groups, each posting a 2-1 record during the group stage. Due to the tournament’s expanded bracket structure, they represent a rare pairing where two second-place finishers were drawn directly against one another in the Round of 32.

Boasting a high-profile friendly win over France just prior to the tournament, the Ivory Coast entered the competition as one of Africa’s most intriguing wild cards. Les Elephants have lived up to that billing by going toe-to-toe with Germany during the group stage, anchored by the stellar play of standout winger Yan Diomande.

Norway, meanwhile, has successfully replicated its strong form from the UEFA qualifiers, cruising past Iraq and Senegal behind a blistering four-goal output from superstar striker Erling Haaland. However, a humbling 4-1 defeat to France in their group stage finale has raised serious questions about the Scandinavians’ defensive stability ahead of the knockouts.

Match Overview

Germany looks to continue its FIFA World Cup campaign as it meets Paraguay in the Round of 32 after winning its group and reaching the knockout stage for the first time since 2018.

Paraguay rebounded from an opening loss to the United States to advance as one of the tournament’s best third-place teams and will try to pull off the upset. With a place in the Round of 16 at stake, don’t miss this exciting World Cup showdown.

Vinícius Jr. will start for Brazil vs Japan, as he has no injuries or suspensions. After being the team’s best player in the last three matches, he will look to make the difference once again. In addition, he is aiming to close the gap on Lionel Messi in the top scorer list, as he already has four goals. Coming off a heavily criticized season, he is expected to be the most decisive player for the national team, leading the attack brilliantly.

Under Hajime Moriyasu, Japan have remained highly competitive. They know how to adapt perfectly to their opponents. Therefore, they could excel in a defensive low block against Brazil, making life difficult for Vinícius Jr. In addition, they are very quick on the counterattack, using short passes to advance into the opposition’s half. There, Daizen Maeda will be the difference-maker, as Takefusa Kubo will once again be unavailable.

Relying on ball possession and a high press, Brazil have established as one of the best attacking teams at the 2026 World Cup. To do so, Vinícius Jr. is key, as his dribbling ability and goalscoring threat make him the difference-maker. In addition, Casemiro, Gabriel Magalhães, and Marquinhos need to shine defensively, as Japan could look to take advantage of any mistake to threaten on the counterattack.

Brazil confirmed lineup vs Japan

Brazil arrive as the clear favorites to defeat Japan. To do so, head coach Carlo Ancelotti will repeat the same lineup that has performed so well throughout the tournament. Vinícius Jr. will be the cornerstone of the team, having stood out in every match. Although Neymar Jr. will be available, he could come off the bench. Beyond the attack, defensive solidity will be the other challenge, as they need to counter Japan’s counterattacks.

Considering this, Brazil will lineup as follows: Alisson Becker; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Douglas Santos; Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Lucas Paquetá; Rayan, Matheus Cunha, Vinicius Jr.

Japan confirmed lineup vs Brazil

Japan will look to surprise Brazil. Head coach Hajime Moriyasu faces a major challenge, as he will not be able to count on Takefusa Kubo. Nevertheless, Daizen Maeda will look to be the difference-maker once again in the attack. In addition, Keito Nakamura will be key to breaking Brazil’s defensive line on the counterattack. Therefore, they will need to be very efficient.

With this in mind, Japan will play as follows: Zion Suzuki; Takehiro Tomiyasu, Shogo Taniguchi, Hiroki Ito; Keito Nakamura, Junya Ito, Daichi Kamada, Kaishu Sano; Ritsu Doan, Daizen Maeda; Ayase Ueda.

Listen to the full episode on Spotify to hear the complete tactical matchday review.

The entire episode centers around Canada’s dramatic Round of 32 clash against South Africa. In a tight, tense tactical battle where neither side wanted to give an inch, midfielder Stephen Eustáquio emerged as the ultimate hero, striking a sensational 92nd-minute volley to seal a thrilling 1-0 victory. The historic win officially punches Canada’s ticket to the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time in country history.

Adrian breaks down the match structure, evaluating how the squad managed to maintain defensive discipline before finding their dramatic breakthrough in stoppage time. The conversation reflects on the sheer scale of the achievement, tracking Canada’s remarkable evolution from a team that historically struggled on the big stage to a legitimate knockout force.

You can stream the entire celebratory recap right now. Check out the Rabona TV World Cup Update on Spotify to get the complete analysis of Eustáquio’s historic goal, standout individual performances, and early tactical keys for the next round.

Despite being one of soccer’s most iconic figures, Santos star Neymar has not been named in the Seleção’s starting XI for the upcoming 2026 World Cup clash against the Samurai Blue.

The rationale behind his role on the substitutes’ bench is a strict matter of match fitness management. The 34-year-old is undergoing a highly calculated conditioning program after recovering from a grade two calf muscle injury suffered in mid-May. While he successfully returned to the field for a brief, emotional 15-minute cameo in Brazil’s 3-0 group-stage win over Scotland, Ancelotti is taking no structural risks with a player who is still finding his competitive legs.

How Long Before a Full Return?

Because his calf recovery has cleared all clinical milestones, the technical team’s progression timeline is centered entirely on building raw endurance rather than repairing tissue damage.

If the five-time world champions can navigate past Japan’s highly disciplined pressing system today, Neymar’s integration plan looks highly optimistic:

• Current Phase: Eased in as a second-half impact sub with a projected ceiling of 20 to 30 minutes depending on match flow.
• Projected Full Match Sharpness: Expected by the Quarterfinals (July 10–11), provided he suffers no muscular setbacks.
• Ultimate Tournament Target: Reaching 100% capacity for a potential deep knockout run through the semifinals.

Easing Back From an Ultra-Long Layoff

Neymar’s calf injury was a cruel blow that forced him to sit out the opening two matches of Group C against Morocco and Haiti. However, his physical battle stretches far beyond this summer.

His Matchday 3 appearance against Scotland actually marked his first competitive minute for the national team in 980 days, a massive absence dating all the way back to his devastating ACL tear against Uruguay in October 2023.

Given the sheer length of that structural layoff, pushing the veteran into a high-intensity knockout game from the opening whistle would go against the medical staff’s blueprints. Ancelotti made his cautious approach very clear to the media ahead of the match: “Neymar is capable of playing more than 15 minutes now, but his role will entirely depend on the context and the live evolution of the match.”

Instead of forcing a full 90-minute shift, Brazil is utilizing the emerging 19-year-old talent Rayan on the flank to preserve their tactical rhythm while keeping Neymar as a premium weapon for later in the game.

The definitive reason behind his omission is a lingering left-knee injury. The 25-year-old midfielder originally sustained the injury during Japan’s intensely physical tournament-opening draw against the Netherlands, forcing him to miss the subsequent group-stage matches against Tunisia and Scotland.

Kubo’s absence compounds an already devastating medical crisis for Japan. The Samurai Blue arrived in North America completely stripped of their core leadership group, with key stars Kaoru Mitoma, Takumi Minamino, and veteran captain Wataru Endo all ruled out of the tournament due to severe pre-camp injuries.

Projected Recovery Time: When Will Kubo Return?

Because this knee injury involves a bone bruise and localized swelling rather than structural ligament damage, Kubo’s 2026 World Cup campaign is not officially over.

Neither the player nor the Japan Football Association (JFA) have locked in a rigid medical timetable, opting instead to monitor his progress day by day. If the Samurai Blue can orchestrate an upset against Brazil without him, the medical staff is circling Friday, July 3, or Saturday, July 4 as a realistic target window for his return.

This timeline would make him available for a potential Round of 16 appearance, giving his knee the critical rest required to clear the remaining inflammation and handle full-contact training.

Coach Hajime Moriyasu’s Verdict

There was a late surge of optimism in the Japanese camp just 24 hours before kickoff. On Sunday, June 28, Kubo was cleared by the medical staff to return to light group training for the first time since the opening matchday. Heavily taped up, the winger even expressed confidence to local media, stating he felt “in a good state.”

However, manager Hajime Moriyasu opted for maximum caution during his pre-match press conference, choosing protectiveness over rushing his star asset back into an intense environment against a physical side like Brazil: “I’m hoping for a speedy recovery and he’s doing everything he can to pick up his conditioning, [but] he will not play in the Brazil game.”

While Kubo has progressed enough to potentially earn a highly restricted, emergency seat on the substitutes’ bench, he lacks the competitive match fitness and tactical sharpness required to handle the tracking and defensive work rate demanded by the starting eleven.

Tactical Adjustments: Who Fills the Void?

Kubo’s absence forces a structural adjustment in Moriyasu’s transition blueprint. To compensate for the loss of Kubo’s elite half-space progression, the Samurai Blue will lean heavily on the technical versatility of Ritsu Doan.

The tactical priority shifts toward maintaining a hyper-compact midfield block designed to disrupt Brazil’s passing channels before launching rapid counters through the wings.

Stepping onto the pitch at Houston Stadium, Brazil maintains the 5th position in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking with an official baseline of 1,785.19 coefficient points.

Their Asian opponents present a starkly different, heavily organized challenge that will test Brazil’s creative build-up play. Japan enters the matchup occupying the 17th spot globally on the Inside FIFA leaderboard, sitting on a steady foundation of 1,673.68 points.

The Knockout Equation

Brazil’s progression out of the group phase featured a resilient run, recovering from an early tactical stalemate against Morocco to comfortably stake their claim in the upper half of the bracket.

Japan, conversely, used structural counter-pressing to complete an undefeated run through Group F to book this specific cross-confederation ticket.

The table below outlines the tournament metrics and global rankings for the two opponents:

Comparative Knockout Baseline & Global Rank

Brazil’s Historical FIFA Ranking Dominance

A review of Brazil’s positioning on the international ladder underscores their status as the ultimate benchmark program in soccer history. The South American heavyweights hold the absolute record for longevity at the top of the sport, having spent a staggering 5,070 days at No. 1 in the world across multiple eras.

While their current 5th-place standing is a step back from their historic ceiling, the squad’s structural balance under Ancelotti has stabilized their core point accumulation.

Because World Cup knockout fixtures carry the highest mathematical weight within the FIFA calculation matrix, the stakes in Houston extend directly to the global leaderboard. A win within normal time would yield a substantial coefficient payout to shield their top-five status, while a slip-up against the 17th-ranked Samurai Blue would trigger a steep mathematical penalty.

After navigating a highly competitive Group F cycle without tasting defeat, Hajime Moriyasu’s squad is preparing to step on the pitch for their toughest structural challenge yet. In the latest data release, Japan holds the 17th position in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking with a coefficient baseline of 1,673.68 points.

The team blocking their path to the quarter-finals represents a traditional powerhouse looking to stamp its authority on the bracket. Brazil occupies the 5th spot globally on the official Inside FIFA leaderboard, carrying an elite tier of 1,785.19 ranking points.

While a gap of twelve spots separates the two teams on paper, the tactical discipline displayed by the Samurai Blue suggests this Round of 32 clash will be far tighter than the baseline numbers indicate.

The Knockout Landscape: Group Positions and Global Rank

Japan’s passage to the single-elimination bracket was forged through impressive resilience, including a dominant 4-0 shutout of Tunisia and a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Sweden. Because they advanced as the second-place qualifiers from their pool, they find themselves matched up directly against the traditional heavyweights.

The table below outlines the tournament metrics and international standings for the respective brackets:

Historical milestones

Evaluating Japan’s trajectory on the global leaderboard reveals a narrative of long-term ascension. The country bottomed out at its lowest historical floor in December 1992, when they drifted at 66th in the world.

Through a methodical, decades-long soccer master plan, they managed to scale the mountain to reach an absolute historic peak of 9th globally in the late 1990s, cementing their current status as the benchmark program of the AFC confederation.

Under the mathematical rules governing the FIFA ranking system, a single-elimination World Cup fixture offers massive leverage to the lower-seeded team. Because the algorithm protects lower-ranked sides from severe point drops while heavily rewarding giant-killing acts, Japan stands to gain an astronomical coefficient increase with an upset victory.

Japan have become one of the most solid national teams in the tournament. Head coach Hajime Moriyasu has managed to implement a very versatile style of play. Therefore, they may not struggle much against Brazil’s attack, as they know how to sit deep defensively. In addition, they excel through their wing-backs, who create space for Daizen Maeda and Ritsu Doan to shine, causing major problems for the opposition’s high press.

Brazil have regained their attacking brilliance at the 2026 World Cup. With Vinícius Jr. as their main attacking star, they have managed to break down opposing defenses by dominating possession and pressing their opponents high up the pitch. The double pivot of Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães is key to controlling the midfield, while Gabriel and Marquinhos will be crucial in limiting Japan’s counterattacks, which are usually very efficient.

What happens if Brazil win over Japan?

In case Brazil secure a victory over Japan, they will immediately secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16. With this, Carlo Ancelotti’s team could prove the doubters wrong, emerging once again as a top contenders again. They would face the winner of the tie between Ivory Coast and Norway on July 5. Hajime Moriyasu’s team would post its worst World Cup performance since the 2014 tournament, as it reached the Round of 16 in the previous two editions.

What happens if Brazil draw to Japan?

If Brazil and Japan draw after 90 minutes, they would have to determine the winner of the tie in extra time. Therefore, they would play two 15-minute periods. In case there is still no winner, the match would go to a penalty shootout, where the winner would be decided and would face Ivory Coast or Norway on July 5.

What happens if Brazil lose to Japan?

A defeat for Brazil against Japan would eliminate them immediately from the 2026 World Cup. With this, Carlo Ancelotti’s team would produce their worst performance in recent years, as from 2006 through 2022 they reached at least the quarterfinals. Meanwhile, Hajime Moriyasu’s team would match the performance of their previous two editions. In addition, they would have the chance to reach the quarterfinals for the first time.

The definitive reason for the 28-year-old’s absence is a tear of the biceps femoris in his right leg. The injury occurred on June 19 during Brazil’s 3-0 group-stage triumph over Haiti in Philadelphia, forcing him to leave the pitch prematurely.

Subsequent clinical medical scans confirmed a recurrence of the exact same hamstring injury that sidelined him for five weeks during the European club season in March.

Raphinha’s projected recovery timeline

Though his absence creates an immediate void in creative set-pieces and direct wide play, Raphinha’s 2026 World Cup campaign is not yet officially over. The medical department has laid out a clear roadmap for his return if Brazil can navigate past Japan today:

• Current Status: Undergoing an intensive, three-session daily rehabilitation program in New Jersey.
• Optimistic Return Date: Sunday, July 5, 2026.
• Potential Stage: Round of 16 (facing the winner of the Ivory Coast vs Norway matchup). In his place, Ancelotti has leaned on youth, handing 19-year-old Bournemouth winger Rayan the starting role on the right side to link up with Vinícius Júnior and Matheus Cunha.

Tactical preservation and training decision

While Brazil team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar initially ruled Raphinha out for at least two matches, the winger has taken an unconventional approach to his immediate recovery. Rather than travelling with Ancelotti’s squad to Texas to sit on the bench, Raphinha stayed behind at Brazil’s primary training headquarters in New Jersey.

The technical staff and player mutually agreed that enduring a three-hour commercial or private flight would severely disrupt his rigorous rehabilitation itinerary. By remaining at base camp, the forward is able to complete three intensive, controlled physical therapy sessions per day.

Match Overview

Brazil begins its Round of 16 journey after cruising to the top of its group, with Morocco offering its toughest challenge. Now, Vinicius Jr. and company are focused on securing a place in the quarterfinals.

However, Japan stands in their way after showing it can compete with the world’s best, highlighted by an impressive draw against the Netherlands. With a spot in the last eight at stake, don’t miss this thrilling knockout clash.

Making their World Cup debut, Cape Verde was drawn into a daunting Group H alongside powerhouse nations Spain and Uruguay, as well as Saudi Arabia, with most experts expecting the African side to quietly exit in the opening round. Instead, after grinding out three consecutive draws, including a shocking 0-0 clean sheet against Spain and a thrilling 2-2 tie with Uruguay, Cape Verde advanced as runners-up to book a knockout stage date with the reigning champions.

During his postgame press conference following the win over Jordan, Scaloni was asked about the upcoming matchup and immediately preached respect for the tournament underdogs: “On Cape Verde, I’m not surprised they qualified. They made things very difficult for every opponent they faced. They are a tough team and they’ll make life difficult for us. They frustrated Spain, one of the tournament favorites. Uruguay couldn’t beat them, and neither could Saudi Arabia.“

Despite the massive disparity in soccer pedigree between the two nations, Scaloni refuses to overlook the island nation. “Based on everything we’ve seen at this World Cup, we have to be very careful. They play good football, they have quality, they’re fast, and even though some people might think it won’t be a contest, I can assure you that they’re a great team and they’ll make things difficult for us.”

Argentina has been perfect so far, scoring eight goals while conceding just once, with Messi pacing the tournament’s Golden Boot race. While potential future opponents like Austria appear far more menacing on paper than Cape Verde, the Argentine manager is treating this single-elimination match with the utmost seriousness, knowing that unlike their opening-match stumble against Saudi Arabia in 2022, the knockout rounds offer no second chances.

Messi on the bench: A selfless decision, says Scaloni

One of the biggest storylines heading into the Jordan match was the decision to leave Lionel Messi on the substitutes’ bench. Many expected the Inter Miami superstar to start and pad his historic goal tally against a weaker opponent, especially with Argentina’s top spot in the group already secured. Ultimately, the legendary captain didn’t enter until the second half, a tactical decision that Scaloni revealed was actually proposed by Messi himself.

When questioned about Messi’s relentless pursuit of records, Scaloni emphasized that individual accolades were the furthest thing from the playmaker’s mind: “Today he could have played 90 minutes and could have, without disrespecting the opponent, perhaps grown that legend even more, but he also preferred for his teammates to get minutes, he also preferred to think about what’s ahead, and that speaks volumes because he doesn’t think about those numbers that people talk about so much.“

After subbing on in the 60th minute, Messi needed just 20 minutes to convert a trademark free kick and extend his all-time World Cup record to 18 goals, a feat Scaloni credits to the squad’s collective harmony. “I’m happy because he decided on that. When I spoke to him he said that was what was best. I agreed as well. I think that speaks a bit to what what the Argentine national team, the group, his teammates represent to him, and that is honestly wonderful,” Scaloni concluded.

Kicking off the Round of 32 at SoFi Stadium, Canada dominated the tempo against South Africa but struggled to find the breakthrough on the scoreboard. Just as extra time loomed, captain Stephen Eustaquio controlled a loose clearance with his chest and unleashed a brilliant first-time strike in stoppage time to secure the dramatic match-winner.

As the historic victory was finalized, Marsch gathered his roster at midfield for an emotional huddle caught by the broadcast cameras: “Guys. Think about the two years we’ve been together. Think about how we talked about sticking to the plan, sticking to who we want to be, playing aggressive, accessing the quality, you guys showing your character.“

The American manager then emphasized the gravity of the triumph, framing it as a defining moment for the future of soccer in the country. “You guys are Canadian heroes! Canadian heroes! Canadian heroes for the future children of this country, who play this sport. This sport has a big future because of you guys. You should be so proud of who you are. You should be so proud of this game. You never lost belief. You went after it. Point after point, moment after moment. You are Canadian heroes,” Marsch concluded.

Appointed just ahead of the 2024 Copa America, Marsch took the reins of the Canadian national team following a challenging stint with Leeds United in the English Premier League. After guiding the team to a fourth-place finish at the Copa America and a third-place finish in the Concacaf Nations League, this historic run on soccer’s grandest stage stands as his defining achievement.

What’s next for Canada?

The 2026 tournament marks Canada’s third World Cup appearance in history, and their first as a co-host, having entered the competition without ever advancing past the group stage, all while superstar Alphonso Davies was sidelined by injury. Even with the Bayern Munich star unavailable to start, Les Rouges defied the odds to finish second in Group B and reach the knockout rounds.

The grueling win over South Africa ensures Canada will make its debut in the World Cup Round of 16, where the competition will only get stiffer. Their next match is scheduled for Saturday, July 4th, when they will face the winner of the heavyweight clash between the Netherlands and Morocco in Houston.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s next game with Portugal is scheduled for Thursday, July 2, when they face Croatia for the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup at Toronto Stadium. The forward is heading to the game after sitting second in Group K following a 0-0 draw against Colombia.

The icon’s 2025-26 domestic campaign with Al Nassr has officially drawn to a close, meaning he won’t suit up for the Saudi Arabian powerhouse until next season. His club campaign ended on a high note on Thursday, May 21, when he secured the Saudi Pro League title with a 4-1 victory over Damac FC, emphatically snapping his silverware drought since arriving in the Middle East in late 2022.

So far this season, the Portuguese icon has scored 30 goals and provided 4 assists in 37 games for Al Nassr, while netting 5 goals in 5 UEFA World Cup qualifiers and 2 in the 2026 World Cup for Portugal, with his personal account in 975 career goals.

Ronaldo faced long break due to FIFA schedule

After his stunning bicycle-kick goal against Al Khaleej, Cristiano Ronaldo was rested for Al Nassr’s midweek AFC Champions League Two match. But from that point forward, the Portuguese star endured a 24-day gap without competitive action, a result of the upcoming FIFA competition schedule.

From December 1 through 18, Qatar hosted the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup, with the final between Morocco and Jordan played at Lusail Stadium, the same venue as the 2022 World Cup final.

With several Saudi Pro League players involved, including stars of the Saudi Arabian national team, clubs, including Al Nassr, were unable to meet domestic player requirements, forcing the SPL into a temporary pause during the tournament.

Lionel Messi’s next match with Argentina is scheduled for Friday, July 3, when La Albiceleste take on Cape Verde for the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup at Miami Stadium in Miami Gardens. The forward is heading to the game after scoring a free kick in the 3-1 win against Jordan, extending his record in the competition to 18 goals.

As for his next game with Inter Miami, Major League Soccer has implemented break for the World Cup, with the 2026 regular season slated to resume after the international tournament concludes in mid-July. To jumpstart their defense of the MLS Cup trophy, the Herons will return to action by hosting the Chicago Fire at Nu Stadium on Wednesday, July 22.

During the World Cup, Messi featured in all three matches for Argentina scoring six goals to cement his legacy as the tournament’s all-time top scorer with 18 career World Cup goals. As for the 2026 MLS campaign, Messi has featured in 16 official matches so far across all competitions for Inter Miami, scoring 13 goals with 7 assist registered thus far.

Lionel Messi and the task of defending the World Cup title

The year 2026 will be especially significant for Messi, not only because of Inter Miami’s ambitions but also because he’ll head into the 2026 World Cup aiming to defend the title. The triumph in Qatar in 2022 marked one of the defining peaks of his career, and now in North America he’ll enter another tournament wearing the champions’ badge for the first time.

Drawn into Group J, Argentina will open its campaign against Algeria on Tuesday, June 16, in Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium. The second match will be against Austria on Monday the 22nd in Arlington at AT&T Stadium, before closing the group stage against Jordan on Saturday the 27th, also in Texas.

The Argentina FA has announced that the national team will base itself in Kansas City during the tournament, though training facilities have yet to be confirmed. Expected to be his final World Cup appearance, Messi will have a chance to add to his record haul with a squad coached by Lionel Scaloni that remains one of the strongest in international soccer after winning the last World Cup and back-to-back Copa América titles.

Fueled by an inspired Vinicius Junior, Brazil captured the top spot in Group C ahead of Morocco, who finished second on goal differential after both sides earned seven points. Now, the Canarinha is gearing up for a tricky Round of 32 clash against Japan on Monday, June 29th, a formidable test, though certainly not their steepest potential hurdle.

In a recent interview with L’Equipe, Ronaldo was asked to name his frontrunners to win the 2026 World Cup, and the iconic forward didn’t mince words: “France, Spain, and Argentina are playing very good football, they are highly competitive, and Germany is always dangerous. Those are Brazil’s biggest rivals for the title.“

While the road to the final is long, the tournament’s bracket topology could favor Brazil regarding when they face fellow heavyweights. The Canarinha is situated on a side of the bracket shared only with archrivals Argentina, setting up a potential semifinal blockbuster, while France, Spain, and Germany are all locked on the opposite side, meaning Brazil wouldn’t see them until the final.

Should Brazil get past Japan, they would advance to face either the Ivory Coast or Norway in the Round of 16. A potential quarterfinal matchup looms against England based on FIFA rankings, ensuring that their journey toward the championship match will be anything but a cakewalk.

Ancelotti is the man to deliver the sixth star, says Ronaldo

After overcoming a career-threatening string of knee injuries, Ronaldo Nazario scripted an unbelievable comeback at the 2002 World Cup, claiming the Golden Boot to lead his country to glory. That triumph, however, marks the last time the South American powerhouse lifted the trophy, and after 24 years of searching for their elusive sixth star, Ronaldo believes the solution has arrived in Ancelotti.

When pressed about the Italian manager’s credentials, the former Real Madrid and Barcelona icon offered a glowing endorsement: “I have enormous confidence in his work and in his ability to calm the environment and get the best out of his players. He understands football like few others and he knows how to handle pressure. I wouldn’t choose any other coach at this moment for the Selecao.“

Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, the CBF solidified its long-term vision by extending Ancelotti’s contract through 2030, ensuring he will guide the nation into the next tournament cycle. Having conquered the club game as the most decorated manager in UEFA Champions League history with five titles, Ancelotti is now eager to replicate that golden touch on the international stage.

Given his pedigree and leadership style, Ronaldo is convinced that Ancelotti’s locker-room presence is exactly what Brazil needs to secure the title. “I believe in it, and I think man-management is actually the main factor making a difference today. And Ancelotti knows exactly how to manage very high-level players, how to motivate a squad, and how to create a favorable and relaxed environment for the team. Brazil needs that now more than ever, because the pressure tied to this drought just keeps growing.“

After securing their place in the Round of 16, Canada will face the winner of the match between Morocco and the Netherlands, which will be decided on June 29. The match will take place on July 4 at 1:00 PM EST at Houston Stadium. Having already made history, Jesse Marsch’s team arrive with no pressure, as they are only adding to their legacy in World Cup history.

Whether they face the Netherlands or Morocco, it will represent Canada’s toughest challenge of the tournament. So far, they have not faced any national teams considered top contenders. For that reason, head coach Jesse Marsch may decide to make some tactical adjustments while keeping the main idea: Defensive solidity and efficient counterattacks. With a golden opportunity to secure a quarterfinal spot, they will enter the match highly motivated.

Both Netherlands and Morocco shine with their attacking prowess, dominating possession and pressing high. Therefore, Canada would need to strengthen their defensive solidity. They have one major advantage: they are very strong on the counterattack. Even without dominating possession, they usually find their way into the opposition’s penalty area. However, their main challenge will be finishing, as they need to be more efficient in the scoring side.

Jesse Marsch changed the course of Canada’s World Cup history

Canada’s first appearance at a World Cup came in 1986 under head coach Tony Waiters. However, they failed to win any of their matches, losing to France, Hungary, and the Soviet Union. After that appearance, they were absent from the tournament for 36 years until returning at Qatar 2022. Far from improving, they once again lost all three of their matches, against Belgium, Croatia, and Morocco. However, Jesse Marsch changed everything.

Unlike previous editions, Canada did not have to qualify, as they entered the tournament as a co-host. They have had their best performance in their history at the 2026 World Cup. After reaching the Round of 32, they defeated South Africa, proving to be a highly effective team on the counterattack. Head coach Jesse Marsch has been the key figure behind that success, giving the team a flexible tactical identity that thrives through its wide players.

Far from defining Jesse Marsch’s team with only one style, they achieved a bigger objective: Adapting to their rival. Against offensive rivals, they know how to sit back and contain the attack. With this, they go out on the counterattack, taking advantage of their speed on the wings. Since their fourth place at the 2024 Copa América, they have been consistent with their style, building a very eye-catching project. With this, the head coach has already left a historic legacy.

“Radiological tests performed on Yeremy Pino ruled out a fracture, diagnosing him instead with an acromioclavicular sprain. Meanwhile, Nico Williams suffered a muscle injury to his right adductor after a heavy impact caused by a tackle during the match against Uruguay. Both injuries are considered moderate, and their recovery will determine their availability for the remainder of the World Cup,” the Royal Spanish Soccer Federation reported on its website.

No recovery timeline has been provided for Nico and Yeremy, but both will remain with the Spain squad, suggesting that neither injury is serious. However, they may not return until the later stages of the tournament. As a result, Luis de la Fuente will have far less squad rotation than expected in the upcoming matches. With this in mind, all eyes are on Lamine Yamal, who must step up and deliver another standout performance.

While Yeremy Pino arrived at the 2026 World Cup injury-free from Crystal Palace, Nico Williams came into the tournament after a season marked by physical problems. The 23-year-old star suffered a groin injury, muscle overload, two cases of pubalgia, and a thigh injury with Athletic Bilbao. Therefore, Spain may choose not to rush his recovery, using him only as an impact substitute if he returns. This differs from Pino, who could make an earlier return.

Victor Muñoz and Dani Olmo could take center stage for Spain

Throughout the 2026 World Cup, head coach Luis de la Fuente has strongly backed Lamine Yamal and Álex Baena as his starting wingers. Therefore, the absences of Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino would not be a major blow to his current tactical approach. Instead, Spain will place their hopes on Víctor Muñoz and Dani Olmo, who could take on more prominent roles as backups in the upcoming matches.

Even though Víctor Muñoz is still dealing with physical issues, Luis de la Fuente revealed that he is close to recovering. As a left winger with strong dribbling ability, he could offer Spain tactical alternatives against teams such as Croatia or Portugal, their likely opponents in the Round of 16. Likewise, Dani Olmo can play on either wing, making him key to giving Lamine Yamal or Álex Baena some rest.

Luis de la Fuente could also rely on Ferran Torres. With a more goalscoring and central profile, Spain would gain additional tactical options. In addition, Pedro Porro or Marcos Llorente could occupy the entire flank, complementing the team. However, Víctor Muñoz and Dani Olmo are the leading candidates to step up because of their profiles and experience in the role, as they have regularly played there for the national team and delivered strong performances.

During the group stage, a deadlock after 90 minutes of regulation meant both teams split the points, earning one apiece. That format is thrown out the window in the knockout rounds, where a winner must be determined on the day.

If a knockout match remains tied at the end of the regulation 90 minutes, the game will head into extra time. Teams will play an additional 30 minutes, divided into two 15-minute halves, pushing the total match length to 120 minutes in an effort to find a breakthrough.

While some regional tournaments, like the Concacaf Champions Cup, utilize away-goals rules as a primary tie-breaker, the World Cup operates differently. Because these knockout matchups are single-leg, winner-take-all games, away goals carry no weight, even if one of the competing nations happens to be one of the three tournament hosts.

During extra time, the brief 15-minute halves mean there are no scheduled hydration or cooling breaks like those occasionally seen in regulation. To help combat player fatigue, however, both managers are granted one additional substitution and one extra stoppage window, bringing their match totals to six available substitutes across four windows.

Penalties: The ultimate tie-breaker

If the scoreboard remains deadlocked after 120 minutes of grueling regulation and extra time, a penalty shootout will serve as the final tie-breaking mechanism. The sequence begins with a pre-shootout coin toss at midfield, allowing captains to choose which end of the pitch to use, typically aiming for the side housing their own supporters, and whether to shoot first or second.

In the shootout, each manager selects their initial penalty takers, with both teams receiving up to five alternating attempts from the spot. Teams can still recover from an early miss, but if a team falls mathematically behind during the five-round cycle and cannot catch their opponent, the match is instantly over.

Should the teams remain completely deadlocked after the initial five rounds, the shootout transitions into sudden death. From that point on, teams alternate single penalty kicks until one side scores and the other misses, leaving no second chances for the defeated squad.

Listen to the full preview on Spotify to hear all 16 bracket predictions.

The knockout breakdown kicks off with an analytical look at the tournament’s fairytale underdogs. Adrian evaluates how co-hosts Canada can navigate past a resilient South Africa squad that just pulled off a shocking group finale, before tracking whether the Cinderella run of Cape Verde can survive a daunting defensive test against Lionel Messi and Argentina.

The episode goes on to dissect massive blockbuster matchups locked into the bracket. The show features deep tactical previews for heavy-hitting clashes like Brazil taking on an organized Japan, a European-African chessboard battle between Morocco and the Netherlands, and a high-stakes meeting between Portugal and Croatia.

You can stream the entire tactical overview right now. Check out the Rabona TV Knockout Preview on Spotify to see if you agree with Adrian’s predictions before the single-elimination drama kicks off.

Listen to the full analysis on Spotify to catch up on all the tactical breakdowns.

The biggest storyline of the tournament unfolded in Group H. Uruguay’s World Cup campaign came to a crashing, premature end after a decisive clash with Spain. Capitalizing on Uruguay’s misfortune, tournament darlings Cabo Verde managed to pull off a historic qualification breakthrough, securing their spot in the Round of 32 following a parallel draw against Saudi Arabia.

Over in Group I, the highly anticipated heavyweight clash between France and Norway failed to deliver its expected tactical fireworks. With knockout qualification already secured, Norway opted to completely rest their starting lineup, allowing a full-strength French side to comfortably cruise through a low-intensity match.

The daily wrap-up also evaluates a frustratingly anti-climactic finish in Group G. A high-stakes encounter between Senegal and Iraq was completely derailed just 13 minutes into the match by an early red card, altering the entire tactical landscape and suffocating the competitive drama for the remainder of the evening.

You can stream the entire daily overview right now. Check out the Rabona TV World Cup Recap on Spotify to get the complete breakdown of final group tables, shocking bracket shifts, and upcoming knockout matchups.

Listen to the full episode on Spotify to hear the complete matchday analysis.

The program kicks off with a review of the latest tournament action, headlined by Portugal’s emphatic 5-0 dismantling of Uzbekistan—a match that saw their attacking front finally click into gear. The hosts contrast that dominant display with England’s frustrating, scoreless 0-0 draw against an organized Ghana squad, alongside crucial group victories for Croatia and Colombia.

The focus of the discussion then shifts heavily toward Canada’s massive upcoming showdown against Switzerland to determine the winner of Group B. The duo breaks down how Jesse Marsch’s team can handle the pressure of this winner-take-all scenario, evaluating tactical midfield replacements for the injured Ismael Koné and how a fully available Alphonso Davies impacts their transition game.

The episode concludes with a comprehensive preview of the remaining final matchday fixtures, including a fascinating Group C meeting between Brazil and Scotland. The guys outline the various qualification math and knockout-round paths for contenders like Mexico, Morocco, and South Africa as the group stage draws to a dramatic close.

You can stream the entire daily overview right now. Check out The 90th Minute on Spotify to stay completely up to date on all the latest tactical lineups, group tiebreakers, and upcoming matchups.

Listen to the full analysis on Spotify to catch up on all the tactical breakdowns.

The headline shock emerged from Group E, where a heavily favored Germany side was completely exposed by Ecuador. The Germans looked sluggish and incredibly poor when in possession, ultimately conceding twice to an Ecuadorian side that typically averages less than a goal per game.

The drama spilled over heavily into Group D as well. Despite already being mathematically eliminated from the tournament, Türkiye played spoilers by putting together a passionate performance to defeat co-hosts USA. While the Americans still look ahead to the knockout rounds, the loss exposes critical structural issues before the high-stakes games begin.

The daily wrap-up also evaluates the final configurations of Group F, where Japan and Sweden fought out a dense tactical draw, while the Ivory Coast successfully conquered debutants Curaçao. The episode concludes by mapping out the official tournament bracket, highlighting massive locked-in Round of 32 heavyweight blockbusters including Japan vs. Brazil and Netherlands vs. Morocco.

You can stream the entire daily overview right now. Check out the Rabona TV World Cup Recap on Spotify to get the complete breakdown of the latest goals, final standings, and upcoming knockout analysis.

To help navigate this massive tactical minefield, popular soccer content creator Adrian Sousa of Rabona TV has dropped a comprehensive, must-watch predictions guide breaking down every single knockout matchup.

The breakdown offers an in-depth look at every analytical layer, whether you’re following the path of the reigning world champions, an intriguing clash between the USA and Bosnia, or the tournament’s biggest underdog stories. This projection mapping covers it all.

Watch: Rabona TV’s Round of 32 Predictions

You can watch the full tactical analysis and predictions video directly below:

Navigating the Bracket: Video Chapters and Key Clashes

With sixteen blockbuster matches spaced out across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, Rabona TV systematically details the tactical blueprints required for survival. The breakdown structure allows viewers to instantly jump to specific matches of interest:

• 00:00 – Intro
• 01:05 – South Africa vs Canada
• 02:55 – Brazil vs Japan
• 04:22 – Morocco vs Netherlands
• 06:20 – Norway vs Ivory Coast
• 07:57 – USA vs Bosnia & Herzegovina
• 09:30 – Argentina vs Cape Verde
• 11:10 – Germany vs Paraguay
• 12:50 – France vs Sweden
• 14:08 – Belgium vs Senegal
• 15:25 – Portugal vs Croatia
• 17:16 – Mexico vs Ecuador
• 18:27 – England vs DR Congo
• 19:27 – Colombia vs Ghana
• 21:13 – Australia vs Egypt
• 22:42 – Spain vs Austria
• 23:57 – Algeria vs Switzerland
• 25:19 – Predictions vs Supercomputer
• 27:14 – Outro

Lionel Messi became the first player in history to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches, from the Round of 16 at Qatar 2022 through Argentina’s most recent group-stage match of the 2026 edition against Jordan. With this, he surpassed Cristiano Ronaldo in the tournament’s history while also overtaking Jairzinho and Just Fontaine, who had previously shared the record with six consecutive World Cup matches with a goal.

While Cristiano is one of the greatest players in history, he is not close to Messi’s record. His best scoring streak came between the 2014 and 2018 World Cups, when he scored in three consecutive matches. With this likely being his final edition, he would not have enough time to equal his record, as Portugal would have to reach the final and he would need to score in every match. Even then, he would only reach a streak of four consecutive scoring games.

In the Round of 32, Argentina will face Cape Verde, one of the tournament’s best attacking teams. There, Lionel Messi will have the chance to score again and extend his lead over Jairzinho, Just Fontaine, and Cristiano Ronaldo. In addition, he will be looking to strengthen his position as the tournament’s top scorer, as he already has six goals and still has several matches ahead where he will aim to score again and lead his national team to the final.

Messi joins Pelé and three legends as World Cup free-kick scorers list

After starting Argentina’s first two matches, head coach Lionel Scaloni decided to leave Lionel Messi on the bench against Jordan. With the victory already well on track, the 39-year-old star entered the match in the 60th minute, replacing Lautaro Martínez. Showing his quality, he scored a stunning free-kick to give his national team their third goal. With that strike, he joined Pelé and three other legends on an exclusive list of World Cup free-kick scorers.

Lionel Messi has joined Pelé, Rivelino, Bruno Genghini, and David Beckham as the only players to ever score two or more free-kick goals in the World Cup, according to MisterChip, a well-known statistician in soccer. With a couple more games ahead, the 39-year-old star could become the undisputed leader in this ranking if he scores more free-kick goals in the 2026 World Cup.

On Saturday, Colombia and Portugal battled for the top spot in Group K in a highly anticipated Matchday 3 fixture that ultimately ended in a scoreless draw in Miami. Sporting their respective captain’s armbands, Rodriguez and Ronaldo shared a warm, amicable moment together on the pitch just before the opening whistle.

Speaking to ESPN after the match, Rodriguez was asked about the pregame reunion and took the opportunity to reflect on their long-standing bond: “He is a great friend, he is a great person. Since I arrived at Real Madrid, when we were both younger, we formed a beautiful friendship; I was always at his house.“

Real Madrid signed Rodriguez following his breakout season at AS Monaco and a stunning Golden Boot performance for Colombia at the 2014 World Cup. Over the course of three seasons together in Spain, a stretch that included lifting the UEFA Champions League trophy, the duo forged a powerful bond that has endured to this day.

The Colombian playmaker concluded by praising the Portuguese icon, who is currently competing in his record-breaking sixth World Cup. “He is a great person and an example because of everything he has done. At 41 years old, look at what he’s like, the physique he has. It’s because he is a great athlete and a person I admire a lot and hold dear,” Rodriguez stated.

Who will Colombia and Portugal face next in the World Cup?

Colombia vs. Portugal was one of the marquee matchups of the group stage finale with the Group K crown on the line, and while both sides created dangerous opportunities that forced spectacular goalkeeper saves, the match ended in a 0-0 stalemate. Rodriguez pulled the strings with five key passes but couldn’t find the breakthrough, while Ronaldo endured a tough day at the office, limited to just 35 touches and a single shot on target.

With the teams splitting the points, Colombia topped the group with seven points, while Portugal advanced as the runners-up with five. As both nations move on to the Round of 32, Rodriguez and Colombia will square off against Ghana on July 3rd in Kansas City, while Ronaldo’s squad is set for a heavyweight clash against Croatia on July 2nd in Toronto.

Davies will begin the match on the bench due to a tactical decision by head coach Jesse Marsch. While the fullback has regained full fitness and participated in recent training sessions alongside his teammates, the American manager has opted for a cautious approach to avoid any risk of a setback. Rather than throwing him straight into the starting XI, Marsch intends to ease him back into action with minutes off the bench.

During Saturday’s press conference, Davies joined Marsch to address the media. Canada’s head coach opened up about the situation, explaining that rushing the Bayern Munich star back during the group stage would have been too risky, and that sitting him out during that stretch was done “in the best interests of Alphonso and his career and his health.“

Following the medical staff’s carefully managed recovery plan, Marsch confidently updated the media on Davies’ current status: “Now he’s truly available. We have Alphonso back and healthy and ready to perform, I think it’s a big moment for the team and a big boost for the team. He’s a big X factor for us. Being on the pitch, the belief they have in him, the belief he has in himself, I think changes the possibility of what the potential of our team is, and what we can do in this tournament.”

Instead, Marsch has opted to deploy Richie Laryea at left back. Laryea has started every single game of this World Cup for Canada, turning in standout performances. Still, it remains to be seen whether Davies will slot back into his usual defensive role for Bayern Munich when he takes the pitch, or play in the more advanced attacking role he typically occupies for the national team.

The Round of 32 begins

Despite finishing second in their group, Canada earned a favorable matchup against the runners-up of Group A, a spot shockingly claimed by South Africa after rebounding from a rocky start to secure a draw and a historic win over South Korea. This Sunday, June 28th clash kicks off the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup, with both nations vying for a historic, first-ever berth in the Round of 16.

The match will take place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, with the winner advancing to face either the Netherlands or Morocco, two powerhouse opponents boasting far deeper historical pedigrees in the tournament.

Canada have shined as one of the most consistent national teams. While imposing an offensive approach, they also shine in defensive task. To chase the victory, Tajon Buchanan and Liam Millar are set to be key to break the defensive line. Moreover, Jonathan David will also play a huge role, opening gaps within the centerbacks and chasing the goal.

While Alphonso Davies is the main star of Canada, he has yet to make his debut at the 2026 World Cup. After suffering a hamstring injury at the beginning of May, he has been recovering, missing the entire group stage. Jesse Marsch has made it clear that he will be available to have some minutes, but he will start from bench. With this, he will look to avoid relapses on his injury.

Without being a particularly impressive attacking team, South Africa reached the knockout stage by prioritizing defensive consistency. Therefore, Hugo Broos is expected to stick with his two defensive lines. However, their counterattacks are very dangerous, as they are capable of forcing defensive mistakes from their opponents. Without a striker in top form, they could instead shine through their aerial game, where several players can shine.

South Africa confirmed lineup vs Canada

South Africa are looking to upset Canada with a more conservative approach. Head coach Hugo Broos will be without Themba Zwane due to the red card he received in the opening match against Mexico. However, he will keep a similar lineup that helped them shine against South Korea, with Mbekezeli Mbokazi leading the defensive line. In addition, Thapelo Maseko will once again have the task of making the difference in front of goal.

With this in mind, South Africa will play as follows: Ronwen Williams; Khuliso Mudau, Ime Okon, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Aubrey Modiba; Yaya Sithole, Teboho Mokoena; Thapelo Maseko, Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis; Evidence Makgopa.

Canada confirmed lineup vs South Africa

Canada have proven to be one of the most consistent teams at the 2026 World Cup. Relying on an attacking approach, head coach Jesse Marsch has excelled in every aspect, as his team have also been solid defensively. Therefore, they will bet on a similar lineup, looking to dominate the match and impose their goalscoring threat. In addition, Alphonso Davies could be a key impact substitute.

Considering this, Canada will lineup as follows: Maxime Crépeau; Alistair Johnston, Luc De Fougerolles, Derek Cornelius, Richie Laryea; Tajon Buchanan, Stephen Eustáquio, Nathan-Dylan Saliba, Liam Millar; Jonathan David, Tani Oluwaseyi.

South Africa have not stood out as an attacking team, but they have managed to reach the knockout stage by relying on their defensive solidity. With two defensive lines, they have managed to trouble most of their opponents, wearing them down physically. They then break quickly on the counterattack, forcing defensive mistakes from their opponents. However, they excel in the aerial game, so they will look to surprise their opponents in that area.

Both Canada and South Africa will be looking to make history at the 2026 World Cup. For the first time in their history, they are playing in the knockout stage of the tournament. In addition, one of the two teams will reach the Round of 16, marking a historic milestone. With this in mind, Jesse Marsch’s team will maintain their attacking approach, while Hugo Broos’ team will look to trouble them with their defensive strength, aiming to make it a highly competitive match.

What happens if Canada win over South Africa?

In case Canada secure a victory over South Africa, they will immediately secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16. With this, Jesse Marsch’s team would achieve the best performance in their history. Although Hugo Broos’ team would be eliminated, they would have recorded their best performance in the history of the competition. They would face the winner of the tie between the Netherlands and Morocco on July 4.

What happens if Canada draw to South Africa?

If Canada and South Africa draw after 90 minutes, they would have to determine the winner of the tie in extra time. Therefore, they would play two 15-minute periods. In case there is still no winner, the match would go to a penalty shootout, where the winner would be decided and would face the Netherlands or Morocco in the Round of 16 on July 4.

What happens if Canada lose to South Africa?

A defeat for Canada against South Africa would eliminate them immediately from the 2026 World Cup. With this, Hugo Broos’ team would secure their place in the Round of 16 for the first time in their history. There, they would face the winner between the Netherlands and Morocco in the Round of 16 on July 4. Meanwhile, Jesse Marsch’s team would leave the tournament after making history, as they had never reached this stage of the competition before.

According to the FIFA Men’s World Ranking, Canada are ranked 32nd place with 1,551.07 points. They have dropped two positions in the ranking after their loss to Switzerland. In recent years, they have managed to significantly improve their international standing compared to their 122nd position in August-October 2014. However, they have yet to match their highest-ever ranking, which was 26th in September of 2025.

Even though they are not at the best moment of their career, Canada remain better positioned than South Africa. Hugo Broos’ team are ranked 56th in the FIFA Rankings, gaining positions but still far behind their opponents. This reflects a clear reality in favor of Jesse Marsch’s team: they have a more complete and attacking squad than their rivals, arriving as the clear favorites to advance to the Round of 16.

Canada could look to maintain their style of play against South Africa: possession dominance and vertical possession. With this, they would create chances consistently, looking for spaces in the opposition’s resolute defense. However, Jesse Marsch’s team need to be solid defensively, as Hugo Broos’ team could be dangerous on the counterattack or take advantage of their aerial game.

Canada aim to make history at the 2026 World Cup

Throughout their history, Canada have played in three World Cup editions: 1986, 2022, and the current 2026 tournament. However, this is the first time they have secured their place in the knockout stage, reaching the Round of 32. After their improvement in recent years, Jesse Marsch could lead the national team to make history in the tournament, as they have a golden opportunity to reach the Round of 16 for the first time in their history.

As a well-balanced team, Canada enter as the favorites to defeat South Africa. To do so, Jonathan David and Cyle Larin need to deliver their best goalscoring form, creating spaces in the defense. Likewise, Luc De Fougerolles and Derek Cornelius need to counter South Africa’s aerial threat, as that is where they can cause the most damage.

Match Overview

South Africa and Canada meet with a Round of 16 berth and a new World Cup milestone on the line, as both nations look to build on breakthrough runs already marked by history. Canada advanced after a win over Qatar and a draw with Bosnia despite a loss to Switzerland.

Meanwhile, South Africa finished second in its group thanks in part to a standout victory over South Korea. Having already surpassed their previous best tournament performances, both teams now have a chance to raise the bar again in a high-stakes showdown.

According to the FIFA Men’s World Ranking, South Africa are ranked 56th with 1451.24 points. After their heroic victory over South Korea, they have climbed six spots in the ranking, surprising everyone. In recent years, they have managed to significantly improve their international standing compared to their 124th position in December 1992. However, they have yet to match their highest-ever ranking, which was 16th in August 1996.

Even though South Africa have improved their position, they still rank below Canada in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking. Under Jesse Marsch, Canada have reached 32nd place with 1,551.07 points, dropping two positions after their defeat to Switzerland. This reflects a harsh reality: Hugo Broos’ team still have a lot to improve structurally to become one of the best-ranked teams again.

South Africa do not have an easy match against Canada. Just as when they faced Mexico, they could face problems overcoming the high press and creating scoring chances. Therefore, head coach Hugo Broos could once again rely on a solid defense to hit on the counterattack and try to cause damage. However, their main opportunity could come from aerial play, where they could take advantage against Jesse Marsch’s team.

South Africa’s Hugo Broos has already made 2026 World Cup history

Throughout history, South Africa have played in four World Cup tournaments, returning for the 2026 edition after a 16-year absence since 2010. In the previous three editions, they were usually eliminated in the group stage, becoming one of the tournament’s disappointing teams edition after edition. However, head coach Hugo Broos changed the history of the national team, leading them to the knockout stage for the first time in their history.

After defeating South Korea in the final group-stage match, they advanced as the runners-up of Group A. While everyone thought they could qualify as one of the best third-placed teams, they exceeded expectations, writing their name into World Cup history. In addition, they have the chance to reach the Round of 16 by defeating Canada today. Therefore, they still have more history to write, but their legacy has already left a new chapter.

Zlatko Dalić has managed to restructure Croatia’s sporting project. With Luka Modrić and Mateo Kovačić as their veteran leaders, they have balanced their experience with young talent. As in their golden era, they have built their team around numerous midfielders to dominate the tempo of the game. However, their wing-backs have been shining, taking advantage of the space to create chances that Petar Sucic and Nikola Vlasic have managed to convert.

Applying a high press and a possession-based style of play, England comfortably defeated Panama. To do so, Harry Kane remained the focal point of the team, dropping deep to receive the ball. In addition, he also excelled in the goalscoring department, alongside Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford on the wings. Maintaining defensive solidity, they consistently caused problems for their opponents, showing why they are among the tournament’s top contenders.

Round of 32 venues and opponents for England, Croatia

After finishing as the winners of Group L, England will face the third-placed team from Group K, DR Congo. Far from being an easy match, they will come up against one of the most attack-minded teams at the 2026 World Cup. The Round of 32 match will be played at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday, July 1, at 12:00 p.m. EST. As a result, Thomas Tuchel’s team will not have much time to recover before the match.

Croatia have managed to recover from their disappointing start, winning their last two matches to secure their place as the runners-up. As a result, they will face the second-place team from Group K, Portugal. The match will be played at Toronto Stadium on July 2 at 7:00 PM EST. Therefore, Luka Modrić’s team face a very difficult challenge in their bid to reach the Round of 16.

Group L Full Standings: Latest Rankings Revealed

England managed to demonstrate their favoritism in Group L of the 2026 World Cup, securing two key victories that earned them first place. Croatia secured second place with two victories, earning six points. Ghana will still compete in the Round of 32 as one of the best third-placed teams. Finally, Panama delivered competitive performances, but they did not manage to earn any points in the tournament.

Argentina secured first place in the group with their victory over Austria. Under the tournament’s tiebreaking rules, head-to-head results are the first criterion, ensuring Argentina finished at the top of the standings even before their last match. The only remaining question was who their opponent would be.

To the surprise of many fans, Cape Verde finished second in Group H ahead of Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. As a result, Argentina will face Cape Verde in the Round of 32 on July 3 in Miami.

Austria’s rival

From the start of the tournament, it was expected that second place in Group J would come down to Austria or Algeria. Their meeting on the final matchday drew plenty of attention because the runner-up was set to face Spain in the Round of 32.

Since Group J was the last group to conclude, both teams already knew the possible scenarios before kickoff. Austria needed only a draw to advance in that position, and that is exactly what they achieved.

The 3-3 draw with Algeria left Austria in second place on goal difference after both they and Algeria finished with four points. Austria will now face Spain in the Round of 32 on July 2 in Los Angeles.

Algeria’s rival

Algeria entered the match knowing that a draw would be enough to qualify for the Round of 32. However, the result was not enough to finish above Austria on goal difference. As one of the best third-placed teams, Algeria will face Switzerland on July 2 in Vancouver.

With a knockout stage berth and the top spot in the group already locked up, La Albiceleste still pressed for a win from the opening whistle despite manager Lionel Scaloni deploying a heavily rotated lineup. Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring with a brilliant free kick in the 19th minute, and Lautaro Martinez doubled the cushion from the penalty spot in the 31st.

Though Mousa Al-Tamari pulled one back for Jordan in the 55th minute, marking the first goal Argentina conceded in the entire group stage, any hope of a comeback vanished when Messi subbed on in the 60th minute to dictate the tempo. In the 80th minute, after drawing a foul on the edge of the box, the Argentine captain stepped up to bury the free kick, sealing the 3-1 finale.

The strike further cements Messi’s legacy as the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer with 18 goals, widening the gap over Miroslav Klose and Kylian Mbappe at 16. Furthermore, the 39-year-old maestro became the first player in soccer history to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches.

There were several memorable results during the group stage, including Cape Verde’s draw with Spain and Curaçao’s point against Ecuador. Albeit Curaçao lost by six goals to Germany, even scoring against one of the tournament favorites was a historic achievement for the nation.

Despite those surprises, there were not many unexpected eliminations, largely because eight third-placed teams also advanced to the knockout stage. Uruguay’s exit is arguably the biggest surprise of the group stage.

The 16 eliminated teams

• Group A: South Korea (3 points) and Czechia (1 point)
• Group B: Qatar (1 point)
• Group C: Scotland (3 points) and Haiti (0 points)
• Group D: Turkiye (3 points)
• Group E: Curaçao (1 point)
• Group F: Tunisia (0 points)
• Group G: Iran (2 points) and New Zealand (1 point)
• Group H: Uruguay (2 points) and Saudi Arabia (2 points)
• Group I: Iraq (0 points)
• Group J: Jordan (0 points)
• Group K: Uzbekistan (0 points)
• Group L: Panama (0 points)

The expanded 48-team format made this group stage unlike any other in tournament history. With 12 groups of four, only the top two finishers in each group were guaranteed automatic passage to the knockout rounds, while the remaining eight slots went to the best third-placed teams across the entire competition.

Among the headlines from the group stage, Argentina, France, and co-hosts Mexico all finished with a perfect nine points from nine, sending an early statement to the rest of the field. However, teams like Germany, Brazil, and Spain also enter the knockout rounds as serious threats, each having shown that they can also be called title contenders.

The race for the third-place spots produced some of the tournament’s most dramatic storylines. Ecuador, Sweden, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Paraguay were among the first to punch their tickets, while Senegal, Ghana, Argelia, and DR Congo held their nerve in the closing matchday to round out the group of eight survivors.

2026 World Cup knockout stage schedule

With every group finalized, here is the complete schedule for the Round of 32, running from June 28 to July 3:

Sunday, June 28

• South Africa vs Canada — Los Angeles Stadium

Monday, June 29

• Germany vs Paraguay — Boston Stadium
• Netherlands vs Morocco — Monterrey Stadium
• Brazil vs Japan — Houston Stadium

Tuesday, June 30

• France vs Sweden — New York New Jersey Stadium
• Ivory Coast vs Norway — Dallas Stadium
• Mexico vs Ecuador — Mexico City Stadium

Wednesday, July 1

• England vs DR Congo — Atlanta Stadium
• USA vs Bosnia and Herzegovina — San Francisco Bay Area Stadium
• Belgium vs Senegal — Seattle Stadium

Thursday, July 2

• Portugal vs Croatia — Toronto Stadium
• Spain vs Austria — Los Angeles Stadium
• Switzerland vs Algeria — Vancouver Stadium

Friday, July 3

• Argentina vs Cape Verde — Miami Stadium
• Colombia vs Ghana — Kansas City Stadium
• Australia vs Egypt — Dallas Stadium

Messi has scored six goals for Argentina. He began the tournament with a historic hat trick against Algeria, becoming the oldest player to score three goals in a World Cup match, before adding two more against Austria.

Close behind him are several of the tournament’s biggest stars with four goals each, including Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Vinícius Júnior and Erling Haaland, who all helped France, Brazil and Norway reach the knockout stage.

Golden Boot standings

Lamine Yamal’s position

Lamine Yamal is not among the tournament’s leading scorers, having scored one goal during the group stage after returning from injury. The winger found the net in Spain’s 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia.