The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage is heating up, and Saturday delivered another thrilling chapter as Colombia booked their spot in the last 16 with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ghana in sweltering Kansas City. Meanwhile, all eyes are on tonight’s blockbuster clash between France and Paraguay.
Colombia 1-0 Ghana: Arias the Hero
Jhon Arias scored the only goal of the match in the 14th minute, volleying home from close range after a bursting run and cross from substitute Luis Suarez. It was enough to send Colombia through and eliminate a Ghana side that struggled to create chances all tournament.
Key stats from the match:
- Colombia had 20 attempts, 8 on target — Ghana had 0 shots on target in the entire game
- Ghana registered just 4 total shots across all 4 group/knockout matches — only Iraq had fewer
- Colombia is now unbeaten in 90 minutes in their last 7 World Cup matches (longest streak ever)
- Clean sheets in 3 straight World Cup games
Ghana’s best chance came inside the first minute when Thomas Partey’s long-range effort fizzed inches wide. But the Black Stars never truly tested Colombia keeper Camilo Vargas, becoming the seventh African side eliminated at this stage — only Morocco and Egypt remain.
Colombia will now face Switzerland in Vancouver on Tuesday (July 7) with a potential quarterfinal showdown against Argentina looming.
Live Now: Paraguay vs France — Mbappe Starts
As of this writing, France is taking on Paraguay in the round of 16. Kylian Mbappe leads the line for Les Bleus alongside Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele. Interestingly, Aurelien Tchouameni was dropped to the bench after reportedly picking up a knock in training, with AS Roma’s Manu Kone stepping into midfield.
Paraguay made three changes from their penalty shootout victory over Germany, bringing in Brighton’s Diego Gomez alongside Omar Alderete and Gustavo Velazquez.
Upcoming Round of 16 Schedule
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (ET) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sat, Jul 4 | Paraguay vs France | Houston | 5:00 PM |
| Sun, Jul 5 | TBD vs TBD | – | – |
| Mon, Jul 6 | TBD vs TBD | – | – |
| Tue, Jul 7 | Colombia vs Switzerland | Vancouver | 4:00 PM |
| Thu, Jul 9 | TBD vs TBD | – | – |
FAQ
Who scored for Colombia against Ghana?
Jhon Arias scored in the 14th minute, volleying home a cross from Luis Suarez who had replaced the injured Jhon Cordoba.
Who does Colombia play next in the World Cup?
Colombia will face Switzerland in Vancouver on Tuesday, July 7. If they win, a potential quarterfinal against Argentina awaits.
Why was Aurelien Tchouameni benched for France vs Paraguay?
Real Madrid’s Tchouameni reportedly picked up an injury in training. AS Roma’s Manu Kone replaced him in midfield.
How many African teams remain in the 2026 World Cup?
Only Morocco and Egypt remain from the nine African sides that started the tournament.
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