The 2026 FIFA World Cup has delivered pure drama in the Round of 16 as co-hosts crash out, four-time champions Germany suffer a stunning penalty defeat to Paraguay, and Kylian Mbappe cements his legacy with yet another record-breaking performance.
Germany 1-1 Paraguay (3-4 on penalties): A Giant Falls
In what will go down as one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history, Paraguay eliminated four-time world champions Germany in a dramatic penalty shootout in Boston. The match finished 1-1 after extra time, with Julio Enciso heading Paraguay into a shock first-half lead before Kai Havertz equalized for Germany in the second half.
The penalty shootout was a nerve-shredding affair. Havertz and Newcastle’s Nick Woltemade both saw their spot-kicks saved by Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill. Paraguay twice missed chances to win it — Antonio Sanabria shot wide and Fabian Balbuena’s effort was saved by 40-year-old Manuel Neuer. But in sudden death, Jonathan Tah blazed over for Germany before defender Jose Canale kept his composure to send Paraguay through 4-3 and spark wild celebrations.
Paraguay will now face France in the last 16 in Philadelphia — a side that just dismantled Sweden 3-0.
USA 1-4 Belgium: Co-Hosts Bow Out
Belgium proved too strong for the United States as Romelu Lukaku scored in a dominant 4-1 victory in Seattle, sending the American co-hosts crashing out of their home World Cup. The US were the last of three co-hosts standing after Mexico fell to England and Canada’s historic run saw them through. Mauricio Pochettino’s side struggled to create meaningful chances and have now exited at the last-16 stage in four of the past five World Cups.
The build-up was overshadowed by controversy after FIFA controversially suspended Folarin Balogun’s one-match ban following pressure from Donald Trump, who said a suspension would leave a “big stain” on the tournament. Balogun had a late chance saved by Thibaut Courtois but couldn’t add to his three tournament goals.
France 3-0 Sweden: Mbappe’s Record Night
Kylian Mbappe became the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup knockout matches as France cruised past Sweden in New Jersey. Scoring twice, Mbappe now has 10 knockout-stage goals and shares the Golden Boot lead with Argentina’s Lionel Messi on six goals. Bradley Barcola also got on the scoresheet as France set up a last-16 clash with giant-killers Paraguay.
Canada Makes History
In a heartwarming story, Canada reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time ever after Stephen Eustaquio’s injury-time winner against South Africa in Los Angeles. Jesse Marsch’s side, who had lost all six of their previous World Cup matches, celebrated their historic achievement. Alphonso Davies returned from injury to make an instant impact off the bench.
Upcoming Round of 16 Matches
- Netherlands vs Morocco — Houston Stadium
- England vs Senegal — Mexico City Stadium
- Argentina vs Switzerland — Atlanta Stadium
- Paraguay vs France — Philadelphia (Saturday)
- Belgium vs Portugal — Dallas Stadium
- Canada vs Netherlands/Morocco — Houston (Saturday)
The 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable tournaments in history. With Germany already out and co-hosts eliminated, the path is wide open for new champions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 World Cup final?
The final will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Which teams are still in the 2026 World Cup?
Remaining teams include Belgium, France, Paraguay, England, Netherlands, Morocco, Argentina, Switzerland, Portugal, Canada, and more. The field is wide open after Germany’s early exit.
Did any co-host make the quarter-finals?
No. All three co-hosts (USA, Canada, Mexico) were eliminated in the Round of 16, making it a clean sweep of host nation exits at this stage.
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