Editor’s note: Keep up with the USA-Bosnia and Herzegovina game with our live blog, here.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is already shaping up to be an unforgettable tournament, with the round of 16 beginning to take form as eight teams have secured their spots. The early knockout matches have underscored the unpredictable nature of these high-stakes games, demonstrating that no team can claim a clear advantage once the elimination rounds commence.
Canada made history by becoming the first nation to advance to the round of 16, achieving its inaugural knockout stage victory with a 1-0 win over South Africa in extra time. This historic achievement has set the stage for an exciting journey for the Canadian team as they continue to compete on the world stage.
The round of 32 action continued with Brazil narrowly escaping a tense encounter against Japan. Japan took an early lead in the knockout round match, with Kaishu Sano opening the scoring in the first half. However, Brazil’s resilience shone through as Casemiro leveled the game early in the second half. The match remained tightly contested until Gabriel Martinelli ultimately secured a 2-1 victory for Brazil in Houston, ensuring their place in the next round.
One of the most significant upsets of the round of 32 occurred when Germany, a powerhouse in international football, was eliminated from the World Cup. They fell to Paraguay on penalties after a tense 1-1 draw in Boston. This unexpected result sent shockwaves through the football world, as Germany’s early exit marked a surprising turn of events in the tournament.
In another dramatic twist, the Netherlands also exited the tournament, losing to Morocco on penalties following a 1-1 stalemate in Guadalupe, Mexico. The Dutch team, known for their skillful play and strong performances in previous World Cups, were unable to secure a victory, leaving fans and analysts alike in disbelief.
On Tuesday, three more spots in the round of 16 were claimed. Mexico advanced with a win against Ecuador, showcasing their determination and ability to perform under pressure. The Mexican team has been a consistent contender in the World Cup, and their progression to the next round is a testament to their hard work and strategic play.
As the round of 16 spots continue to be claimed in dramatic fashion, the excitement and anticipation surrounding the tournament are palpable. Each match brings new challenges and opportunities for the teams, as they strive to make their mark on the world stage. The unpredictability of the knockout rounds adds an extra layer of excitement, as fans eagerly watch to see which teams will advance and ultimately claim the coveted title of World Cup champions.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is proving to be a thrilling spectacle, with unexpected results and unforgettable moments that will be remembered for years to come. As the tournament progresses, the world will be watching closely to see which teams will rise to the occasion and emerge victorious in this prestigious competition. The journey to the final is far from over, and the round of 16 promises to deliver more drama and excitement as the teams battle it out for a place in the history books.
More: What does it mean to be Mexican? El Tri World Cup stars born abroad but heart is all Mexico
Benjamin Asare #16 of Ghana dives in vain as Nikola Vlasic #13 (not pictured) of Croatia scores his team’s second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match between Croatia and Ghana at Philadelphia Stadium on June 27, 2026, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Teams that have booked their place in the round of 16:
- Canada
- Brazil
- Paraguay
- Morocco
- Norway
- France
- Mexico
- England
- Belgium
- United States
Shop World Cup round of 16 tickets
World Cup round of 16 schedule
All times Eastern and fixtures according to fifa.com:
Saturday, July 4:
- Canada vs. Morocco, 1 p.m. at NRG Stadium in Houston
- Paraguay vs. France, 5 p.m. at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia
Sunday, July 5:
- Brazil vs. Norway, 4 p.m. at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey
- Mexico vs. England, 8 p.m. at Estadio Banorte in Mexico City
Monday, July 6:
- Winner of Portugal/Croatia vs. Winner of Spain/Austria, 3 p.m. at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas
- United States vs. Belgium 8 p.m. at Lumen Field in Seattle
Tuesday, July 7:
- Winner of Argentina/Cape Verde vs. Winner of Australia/Egypt, noon, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta
- Winner of Switzerland/Algeria vs. Winner of Colombia/Ghana, 4 p.m. at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada
Thursday, July 9:
- Winner match 89 vs. Winner match 90, 4 p.m. at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts
Friday, July 10:
- Winner match 93 vs. Winner match 94, 3 p.m. at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California
When does the round of 16 begin?
The round of 16 starts on Saturday, July 4, with two matches. The first game will have Paraguay facing France. The second game will feature Canada against Morocco.
Shop World Cup round of 16 tickets
Round of 32 matchups
Below is a look at the round of 32 schedule for the 2026 World Cup:
June 28
- Canada 1, South Africa 0
June 29
- Brazil 2, Japan 1
- Germany 1, Paraguay 1 – Paraguay wins 4-3 on penalties
- Netherlands 1, Morocco 1 – Morocco wins 3-2 on penalties
June 30
- Norway 2, Ivory Coast 1
- France 3, Sweden 0
- Mexico 2, Ecuador 0
July 1
- England 2, DR Congo 1
- Belgium 3, Senegal 2
- United States 2, Bosnia and Herzegovina 0
July 2
- Spain vs. Austria, 3 p.m. ET | FOX, Telemundo
- Portugal vs. Croatia, 7 p.m. ET | FOX, Telemundo
- Switzerland vs. Algeria, 11 p.m. ET | FS1, Telemundo
July 3
- Australia vs. Egypt, 2 p.m. ET | FOX, Telemundo
- Argentina vs. Cape Verde, 6 p.m. ET | FOX, Telemundo
- Colombia vs. Ghana, 9:30 p.m. | Fox, Telemundo
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Who is in World Cup round of 16? Updated bracket, schedule and results
