The FIFA World Cup 2026 enters its knockout phase after an action-packed group stage, with 32 teams advancing to the Round of 32. Host nations the United States, Canada and Mexico remain in contention, while traditional powers prepare for a series of blockbuster matchups.

The group stage is over, and the FIFA World Cup 2026 now moves into its most dramatic phase. Beginning Sunday, every match becomes a win-or-go-home contest as the tournament's remaining 32 nations compete for a place in the Round of 16.

The knockout stage opens with Canada taking on South Africa, giving one of the tournament's host nations the opportunity to make a strong statement in front of North American fans. Canada has continued its remarkable rise in international soccer and hopes home support will carry it deeper into the competition.

Attention then shifts to several heavyweight clashes. Brazil faces Japan, Germany meets Paraguay, and the Netherlands take on Morocco, whose impressive recent World Cup performances have established them as one of the world's most dangerous emerging teams.

On Tuesday, France will battle Sweden, while Mexico, another host nation, meets Ecuador in one of the most anticipated matchups for Latin American supporters.

For American fans, one of the biggest games comes on July 1, when the United States faces Bosnia and Herzegovina. After winning its group, Team USA enters the knockout stage with growing confidence, aiming to capitalize on home-field momentum and continue its evolution into one of CONCACAF's leading soccer powers.

Earlier that same day, England will meet DR Congo. England arrives with one of the tournament's deepest and most talented squads, carrying legitimate ambitions of lifting the World Cup trophy after years of consistently reaching the latter stages of major international tournaments.

Also on July 1, Belgium will challenge Senegal in another intriguing matchup between European experience and African athleticism.

European football remains in the spotlight on July 2 as Spain faces Austria, while Portugal takes on Croatia in one of the round's marquee fixtures. Switzerland and Algeria complete the day's schedule.

The final day of the Round of 32 features defending powerhouse Argentina against tournament surprise Cape Verde, while Colombia faces Ghana in another compelling intercontinental battle.

With traditional giants including Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, Spain, England and Portugal still alive—and host nations United States, Canada and Mexico hoping to energize home crowds—the knockout stage promises world-class football, unforgettable moments and the beginning of the road to the FIFA World Cup Final on July 19.

Round of 32 Matchups

• South Africa vs Canada
• Brazil vs Japan
• Germany vs Paraguay
• Netherlands vs Morocco
• France vs Sweden
• Ivory Coast vs Norway
• Mexico vs Ecuador
• England vs DR Congo
• Belgium vs Senegal
• United States vs Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Spain vs Austria
• Portugal vs Croatia
• Switzerland vs Algeria
• Australia vs Egypt
• Argentina vs Cape Verde
• Colombia vs Ghana