2026 World Cup Knockout Stage: Round of 16 Teams, Schedule, and Bracket Update
The knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup have begun. This year is unique because the Round of 16 is no longer the opening knockout stage. Still, teams are eager to push forward toward glory.
Several surprises emerged during the group phase, but top contenders like France, Spain, Brazil, England, Portugal, and defending champions Argentina have advanced. Underdogs such as Cape Verde, DR Congo, and Bosnia & Herzegovina have the chance to extend their national stories with more memorable moments.
Round of 32 Highlights
All three host nations reached the knockout stage. Canada kicked off the Round of 32 in Los Angeles with a thrilling win over South Africa. The match remained scoreless until stoppage time, when Stephen Eustaquio capitalized on a loose ball to secure a historic goal for Canadian soccer.
Brazil faced a tough first half against Japan, trailing after a goal from Kaishu Sano. Veteran midfielder equalized before Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli netted a late winner in the 95th minute.
Many doubted Paraguay in their clash with Germany, but La Albirroja triumphed 4-3 in penalties after a 1-1 draw. Goalkeeper Orlando Gill saved two shots in the shootout.
Morocco also advanced via penalties, stunning the Netherlands. Issa Diop's stoppage-time goal pushed the match into extra time, where Ismael Sabari emerged as Morocco's hero.
Norway won their first knockout match ever, beating Ivory Coast 2-1 thanks to Erling Haaland’s decisive goal.
France cruised past Sweden 3-0, with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice. They will face Paraguay next.
Mexico impressed at the Azteca Stadium, defeating Colombia 2-0 and securing a clean sheet for the fourth consecutive game. Their next opponent is England.
England came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1, with Harry Kane scoring twice in the second half.
Belgium staged a late comeback against Senegal, winning 3-2 in extra time. Romelu Lukaku’s goal sparked the turnaround. Belgium will meet the winner of USA versus Bosnia & Herzegovina.
How the Knockout Bracket Works
From the Round of 16 onward, every match is single elimination. No points or standings apply here—only winners move forward.
If a match remains tied after 90 minutes, it goes to 30 minutes of extra time. Should the deadlock continue, a penalty shootout decides the victor.
The bracket was set after the group stage, so teams know their potential paths to the final.
The quarterfinals run from July 9 to July 11, with semifinals on July 12 and 13. A third-place playoff takes place on July 18, followed by the final on July 19.
