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The 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 has been nothing short of spectacular. With host nations USA, Canada, and Mexico all fighting for glory, the knockout stage has already delivered drama, upsets, and unforgettable moments. Here’s everything you need to know.
England 3-2 Mexico: The Azteca Fortress Falls
Thomas Tuchel’s England produced their best performance of the tournament at the iconic Estadio Azteca, overcoming a thunderstorm delay, a hostile crowd of 87,000, and a second-half red card to knock out Mexico.
The hero of the night was Jude Bellingham, who scored twice in the space of 98 first-half seconds. The Real Madrid superstar silenced the Azteca with a clinical brace that put England in command.
Key moments:
- ⚡ Bellingham (12′, 14′) — Two quickfire goals, the first a curling effort from the edge of the box, the second a composed finish after a lightning counter-attack
- ⚽ Raúl Quiñones (42′) — Pulled one back for Mexico with a powerful strike
- 🟥 Jarell Quansah (55′) — Sent off for a high challenge, leaving England with 10 men
- ⚽ Harry Kane (72′ pen) — Restored England’s two-goal lead from the spot after Anthony Gordon was brought down
- ⚽ Raúl Jiménez (81′ pen) — Set up a frantic finish after Kane conceded a penalty at the other end
- 🛡️ Dan Burn & Djed Spence — Introduced to shore up a five-man defense for 11 minutes of stoppage time
Jordan Pickford was immense, making two brilliant saves from Raúl Jiménez early in the game that kept England in it. The win sets up a quarter-final clash against Norway.
Norway 2-1 Brazil: Haaland Does It Again
Erling Haaland cemented his legendary status with two goals in the final 10 minutes to send Brazil home and put Norway into the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history.
Haaland’s first was a towering header past Alisson — he out-jumped his club teammate Gabriel Magalhães like he was standing still. His second came in stoppage time, a calm finish across goal. Norway will now face England in the quarter-finals.
Today: Portugal vs Spain — The Iberian Derby
All eyes are on Dallas today as Portugal and Spain meet in what promises to be the most intense Round of 16 tie yet. Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed this will be his final World Cup, adding even more emotion to this classic derby.
USA vs Belgium: Tomorrow (July 7)
The USMNT faces Belgium in what could be their toughest test yet. After cruising past Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32, Gregg Berhalter’s side will need to be at their best against Kevin De Bruyne’s Belgium.
Upcoming Schedule
| Match | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Portugal vs Spain | July 6 | Dallas |
| USA vs Belgium | July 7 | Kansas City |
| Argentina vs Switzerland | July 7 | Miami |
| Colombia vs Germany | July 8 | New York |
| QF: Norway vs England | July 9 | Los Angeles |
FAQ
Where is the World Cup 2026 being held?
The tournament is hosted across 16 cities in three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This is the first World Cup ever hosted by three nations.
Who are the favorites to win after the Round of 16?
France and Argentina remain the bookmakers’ favorites, but England’s resilience and Norway’s giant-killing run have made them serious contenders.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 World Cup has already delivered some of the most memorable knockout matches in recent history. Whether you’re rooting for the USMNT or watching Haaland’s quest for glory, this tournament is unmissable.
Which team are you backing? Let us know in the comments!
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