The 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up as the Round of 16 reaches its thrilling conclusion. Co-host United States crashed out with a 4-1 defeat to Belgium in Seattle, while Argentina prepares to face Egypt and Switzerland takes on Colombia in Tuesday’s blockbuster double-header.
USA 1-4 Belgium: Co-Hosts’ Dream Ends in Heartbreak
The United States became the last of the three co-hosts to exit the tournament after a comprehensive defeat to Belgium at Seattle Stadium. Romelu Lukaku was the star of the show, scoring for Belgium as they clinically dismantled Mauricio Pochettino’s side in front of a stunned home crowd.
This result means all three North American co-hosts—USA, Mexico, and Canada—have now been eliminated in the Round of 16. Mexico fell to England on Monday, while Canada were beaten by Morocco on Saturday.
The build-up to the USA-Belgium clash was overshadowed by major controversy. FIFA made the shock decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s automatic one-match ban for 12 months, allowing the US striker to play. Balogun had received a straight red card for a foul on Bosnia-Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic in the previous round. Even former US President Donald Trump got involved, publicly asking FIFA to review the ban, calling it a potential “big stain” on the tournament. However, Balogun failed to make an impact, with his only meaningful chance—a tight-angle effort—smartly saved by Thibaut Courtois in the final 10 minutes.
The Americans struggled to create clear-cut chances and looked overwhelmed by the occasion. This marks the fourth time in the past five World Cups that the US has fallen at the last-16 stage—a frustrating pattern for American soccer fans. They haven’t reached the quarter-finals since 2002.
Tuesday’s Round of 16 Fixtures (July 7)
Argentina vs Egypt — Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta
The winner of this tie will face Belgium in the quarter-finals. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi in what could be his final World Cup campaign, enters as favorites against an Egypt side that has impressed defensively throughout the tournament.
Switzerland vs Colombia — Venue TBD
A fascinating matchup between two in-form teams. Switzerland topped Group B while Colombia edged through Group K. The winner will advance to face the winner of Argentina/Egypt in the quarter-finals.
Confirmed Round of 16 Results So Far
- Canada 1-2 Morocco
- Mexico 0-3 England
- USA 1-4 Belgium
- Germany vs Paraguay ✓
- France vs Sweden ✓
- Brazil vs ? — Coming up
Upcoming Quarter-Final Schedule
The quarter-finals are set to begin on July 9-12 across multiple US venues. Belgium has already secured their spot and will face the winner of Argentina vs Egypt. The tournament is wide open with several heavyweights still in contention.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 World Cup final?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final will be played on July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Which teams are still in the World Cup?
With the Round of 16 wrapping up this week, the remaining teams include Belgium, Argentina (playing today), England, Morocco, Germany, France, and other group winners. The full quarter-final lineup will be confirmed after Tuesday’s matches.
Has a co-host ever failed to reach the quarter-finals before?
It’s uncommon but not unprecedented. In 2010, South Africa became the first host nation eliminated in the group stage. However, having all three co-hosts exit before the quarter-finals is a historic disappointment for North American football.
What’s Next?
The World Cup continues today with two massive Round of 16 matches. The quarter-finals kick off on July 9, and the tournament is building toward the grand final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium. Stay tuned to PC Master Deals for more World Cup coverage.
Photo credit: Pexels (Free stock photo)