World Cup Knockout Stage Highlights: USMNT, DR Congo, Belgium, Senegal Battles
The 2026 World Cup knockout phase continues with three Round of 32 games set for Wednesday. The spotlight falls on some intriguing matchups that could reshape the tournament landscape.
England Faces DR Congo in Atlanta
Kickoff is at 12 p.m. ET from Atlanta, broadcast on Fox. England, strong favorites at -850 odds, take on the surprising DR Congo squad, who enter as +540 underdogs. DR Congo has impressed by rallying back in every group stage game, clinching four points and earning a knockout spot after defeating Uzbekistan. England secured the top spot in Group L.
Manager Thomas Tuchel will have Declan Rice back after resting him due to a minor calf issue. Injury doubts remain for defenders Reece James and Jarell Quansah, who struggle with hamstring and ankle problems respectively. DR Congo’s resilience is notable; they've come from behind multiple times and could unsettle England’s rhythm. The winner advances to face Mexico at Estadio Azteca on Sunday.
Belgium Meets Senegal in Seattle
The second match takes place at 4 p.m. ET in Seattle, airing on FS1. Belgium, with odds at -178, look to extend their golden generation’s journey. Veterans like goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, and striker Romelu Lukaku carry the hopes of the Red Devils, who topped Group G.
Senegal arrives after a rocky start—losing their first two group matches but then thrashing Iraq 5-0 to advance. They haven’t consistently shown their best form yet, making them unpredictable opponents. The winner moves forward to meet either the United States or Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 6 in Seattle.
USA Opens Knockout Play Against Bosnia and Herzegovina
The final game on Wednesday is at 8 p.m. ET in Santa Clara, California, also on Fox. The U.S. team, favored at -750, hosts Bosnia and Herzegovina (+500). The USMNT, winners of Group D, benefit from playing at home in Levi’s Stadium. Coach Mauricio Pochettino is expected to field a lineup similar to what played against Australia, after resting many starters in the last group game versus Türkiye.
Bosnia earned their spot by knocking out Italy in the playoffs and finished third in a tough Group B, which included draws against co-host Canada and a win over Qatar. This clash promises intensity, with the victor set to face Belgium or Senegal next.
