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The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its knockout phase, and the expanded 48-team format is already delivering drama. Today, June 28, the Round of 32 officially gets underway with South Africa vs. Canada at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Round of 32 and what’s at stake.
What Is the Round of 32?
With 48 teams competing in the group stage, the 2026 World Cup introduced a new knockout round: the Round of 32. This replaces the traditional Round of 16 format, adding an extra layer of high-stakes matches.
- 24 teams: Group winners and runners-up (top 2 from each of 12 groups)
- 8 teams: Best third-placed finishers across all groups
- Total: 32 teams advance to the knockout stage
This means more nations get a shot at glory β and more thrilling knockout football for fans worldwide.
Today’s Key Match: South Africa vs. Canada
- Date: June 28, 2026
- Venue: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California
- Kickoff: 12:30 AM ET
Both teams are making historic runs. South Africa finished as runners-up in Group A behind Mexico, while Canada secured second place in Group B behind Switzerland. One of them will book a spot in the Round of 16 β the other goes home.
Most Anticipated Round of 32 Matchups
While today’s match kicks things off, the Round of 32 bracket is packed with potential blockbusters:
| Matchup | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Portugal vs. Croatia | Likely the final World Cup meeting between Ronaldo (41) and ModriΔ (40) |
| Argentina vs. Cape Verde | Defending champions vs. smallest nation ever in knockout stage |
| France vs. Sweden | France’s rock-solid defense vs. Sweden’s dynamic striker duo |
| Brazil vs. Japan | Six-time World Cup chasing Brazil vs. disciplined Japan |
| Netherlands vs. Morocco | Two top-10 FIFA-ranked teams meeting early |
| Spain vs. Austria | European champions Spain vs. Austria’s attacking firepower |
Full List of Qualified Teams
| Group | Winner | Runner-Up | Best 3rd |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Mexico | South Africa | β |
| B | Switzerland | Canada | Bosnia & Herzegovina |
| C | Brazil | Morocco | β |
| D | USA | Australia | Paraguay |
| E | Germany | Ivory Coast | Ecuador |
| F | Netherlands | Japan | Sweden |
| G | Belgium | Egypt | β |
| H | Spain | Cape Verde | β |
| I | France | Norway | Senegal |
| J | Argentina | Austria | Algeria |
| K | Colombia | Portugal | DR Congo |
| L | England | Croatia | Ghana |
Why This Format Works
The expanded format has already delivered some of the most competitive group-stage football in World Cup history. Smaller nations like Cape Verde, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and DR Congo made the knockout stage for the first time. The Round of 32 means these Cinderella stories get at least one more match on the biggest stage.
For the traditional powerhouses, there’s no room for complacency. A bad day in the Round of 32 sends you home early β and with 32 teams still alive, every match is a potential upset.
FAQ
Q: How is the Round of 32 different from previous World Cups?
A: Previous World Cups had 32 teams total and went straight from the group stage to the Round of 16. With 48 teams in 2026, an additional knockout round (Round of 32) was added before the Round of 16.
Q: When are the Round of 16 matches?
A: The Round of 16 begins immediately after all Round of 32 matches are completed, starting July 1.
Q: Where can I watch the matches?
A: Broadcast details vary by region. In the US, check Fox Sports and Fubo for coverage.
Q: Who are the favorites to win it all?
A: Brazil, France, Argentina, and England are considered the top contenders, but this expanded format has already proven that anything can happen.
Upcoming Round of 32 Schedule
- June 28: South Africa vs. Canada
- June 29-30: Remaining Round of 32 matches
- July 1-2: Round of 16 begins
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is already one for the history books. Whether you’re rooting for a traditional powerhouse or an underdog making their first knockout appearance, the Round of 32 promises unforgettable football.
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