The 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 concluded with a bang, featuring edge-of-your-seat matches, last-gasp winners, and the elimination of several tournament favorites. Co-hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, this year’s tournament has already delivered some of the most memorable moments in World Cup history.
🇪🇸 Spain 1-0 Portugal — Merino Breaks Portuguese Hearts
Mikel Merino scored deep into second-half injury time (90+1′) to send Spain into the quarter-finals and knock Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo out of the tournament. In what was likely Ronaldo’s last World Cup appearance, the 41-year-old legend fought tirelessly but could not find the breakthrough. Spain dominated possession but struggled to break down a resilient Portuguese defense until Merino’s dramatic header sealed the win.
🏴 England 3-2 Mexico — An All-Time Classic at the Azteca
England produced one of the most thrilling performances of the tournament, beating Mexico 3-2 at the iconic Estadio Azteca in front of 87,000 passionate fans. Described by pundits as an “all-time great World Cup game,” the match swung back and forth with end-to-end action. Thomas Tuchel’s England showed tremendous character, and the German manager later praised his team’s mentality, insisting “England can go all the way.” The win was bittersweet for Mexico as they became the last of the three co-hosts eliminated.
🇧🇪 Belgium 4-1 USA — Lukaku Powers Belgians Past Co-Hosts
Romelu Lukaku scored as Belgium comprehensively beat the United States 4-1 in Seattle. The build-up was dominated by controversy over Fiorentina striker Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension, which FIFA controversially suspended for 12 months after President Trump publicly asked for a review. Despite Balogun’s availability, the USMNT struggled to create chances and fell at the last-16 stage for the fourth time in the past five World Cups.
Other Round of 16 Results
- Norway 2-1 Brazil — Haaland stars as Norway shocks Brazil
- Argentina 1-0 Cape Verde — Messi’s Argentina edge through after Cape Verde threatened a massive upset
- Egypt 1-1 Australia (4-2 pens) — Egypt advance in shootout
- Colombia 1-0 Ghana — Arias strikes to take Colombia past Ghana
- Switzerland 3-0 Algeria — Manzambi dazzles as Switzerland stroll through
🇪🇬 Egypt vs Argentina — Salah vs Messi Quarter-Final Looms
Egypt’s famous win over Australia sets up a blockbuster quarter-final against Argentina. “They have Messi, but we have Salah,” Egyptian fans declared as their team prepares to take on the reigning world champions. Mohamed Salah vs Lionel Messi on the World Cup stage — it doesn’t get much bigger than that.
🇳🇴 Norway vs England — Haaland Showdown
Erling Haaland has been in devastating form, scoring twice against Brazil as Norway knocked out the five-time champions. Next up: England in a mouth-watering quarter-final clash. Haaland “beats his own drum,” and Norway will need him at his best against Tuchel’s confident England side.
Quarter-Final Schedule
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| July 7 | Spain vs Switzerland/Colombia | TBD |
| July 9 | Belgium vs Argentina/Egypt | TBD |
| July 10 | England vs Norway | TBD |
| July 11 | Colombia/Switzerland vs Ghana | TBD |
❓ FAQ
Q: Who are the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup?
A: With Brazil, Portugal, and the USA eliminated, Spain, England, and Argentina have emerged as the top contenders. Belgium and Norway are dangerous dark horses.
Q: Was this Cristiano Ronaldo’s last World Cup?
A: At 41 years old, Ronaldo is widely expected to retire from international football after Portugal’s Round of 16 exit. If confirmed, he leaves as the all-time men’s international goalscorer.
Q: How did the controversy over Balogun’s red card unfold?
A: Balogun received a straight red card against Bosnia-Herzegovina. FIFA initially imposed a one-match ban, but suspended it for 12 months after Trump requested a review — sparking outrage from UEFA and other federations.