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The 2026 FIFA World Cup has delivered everything fans could ask for — and more. With 72 group-stage matches in the books, the tournament now enters its thrilling knockout phase, headlined by Lionel Messi’s relentless record-breaking run and some mouth-watering last-32 matchups across North America.
Messi Does It Again
Lionel Messi came off the bench to score a stunning free-kick as Argentina cruised past Jordan 3-1 in Dallas, securing top spot in Group J with a perfect record. But the real story was the history books being rewritten once again.
The goal was Messi’s sixth of the tournament — two clear of his nearest challengers in the race for the Golden Boot — and a record-extending 19th World Cup goal. Even more remarkably, he became the first man to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches, a streak that stretches back to the 2018 tournament.
“Simply incredible,” said former England midfielder Danny Murphy on BBC One. “He just impacts games. He’s so clever, so bright. He’s so aware of what’s going on around him. It’s an absolute pleasure to watch him do what he does.”
Argentina will face Cape Verde in the last 32 on Friday, July 3 — a clash that pits Messi’s six goals against Cape Verde’s 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha, who has already kept two clean sheets this tournament.
The Last 32: Key Matchups
| Match | Date | Why Watch |
|---|---|---|
| South Africa vs Canada | Sun, June 28 | Both nations in the knockouts for the first time ever |
| Brazil vs Japan | Mon, June 29 | Japan beat Brazil 3-2 last October — revenge on the cards? |
| Netherlands vs Morocco | Tue, June 30 | Title favorites vs 2022 semi-finalists |
| England vs DR Congo | Wed, July 1 | Historic moment for DR Congo |
| USA vs Bosnia-Herzegovina | Thu, July 2 | Co-hosts looking to make a deep run |
| Argentina vs Cape Verde | Fri, July 3 | Messi vs the tournament’s breakout goalkeeping hero |
| Portugal vs Croatia | Fri, July 3 | Could be the last World Cup match for Ronaldo or Modric |
Other Big Storylines
- Harry Kane broke another World Cup record as England beat Panama 2-0 to top Group L
- Erling Haaland scored twice to send Norway through with a 3-2 win over Senegal
- Cape Verde scored their first-ever World Cup goal against Uruguay — a moment that went viral globally
- Jesse Marsch has turned Canada into genuine contenders after being snubbed by the USMNT
- Scotland crashed out after a 3-0 defeat to Brazil, with manager Steve Clarke resigning
USA’s Path
The co-hosts finished top of their group despite a 3-2 defeat to Turkey in their final match. Manager Mauricio Pochettino brushed off the loss, telling reporters: “We finished first — players needed to be rested.” The US faces Bosnia-Herzegovina on July 2 in San Francisco, with a potential matchup against Spain or Austria awaiting the winner.
FAQ
Where is the 2026 World Cup being played?
The tournament is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with matches taking place across 16 cities including New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, Toronto, and Mexico City.
When is the World Cup final?
The final will be held at the New York/New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026.
Where can I watch the World Cup in the US?
Matches are broadcast on Fox Sports (English) and Telemundo (Spanish). Streaming options include Fubo, YouTube TV, and Sling TV.
How many goals has Messi scored in World Cup 2026?
Messi has scored 6 goals in the group stage, leading the Golden Boot race. His 19 career World Cup goals extend his all-time record.
Related Articles
- World Cup 2026 Knockout Stage Kicks Off: England Face DR Congo, France Lead Power Rankings
- World Cup 2026 Roundup: England Tops Group L, Messi Scores, Late Drama Eliminates Iran
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