World Cup 2026 Knockout Stage Kicks Off: England Face DR Congo, France Lead Power Rankings

# World Cup 2026 Knockout Stage Kicks Off: England Face DR Congo, France Lead Power Rankings

*This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PC Master Deals earns from qualifying purchases.*

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially entered its most thrilling phase — the knockout stage. After weeks of intense group-stage action across North America, 32 teams remain in the hunt for the trophy. The Round of 32 kicked off on June 28, and there’s already plenty to talk about.

## Knockout Stage: What to Expect

With 48 teams reduced to 32, the knockout bracket is set. Matches go to extra time and penalties if needed — no second chances, no safety nets. Every game is do-or-die from here on out.

[MetLife Stadium](https://www.metlifestadium.com/) in New Jersey will host the final on July 19, but there’s a long road ahead for the contenders.

## Key Round of 32 Matchups

### 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 England vs 🇨🇩 DR Congo

England topped Group L and will face DR Congo, who advanced as one of the best third-place teams after a dramatic comeback win over Uzbekistan. England looked shaky against Panama but got the job done. Gareth Southgate’s side will need to be sharper with their defense — DR Congo has pace and physicality that could cause problems.

### 🇨🇴 Colombia vs 🇬🇭 Ghana

Colombia finished top of Group K after a hard-fought draw against Portugal. James Rodríguez is pulling the strings in midfield, and Colombia’s attack has been one of the most fluid in the tournament so far.

### 🇧🇷 Brazil vs 🇯🇵 Japan — Monday, June 29

Brazil are always favorites, but Japan impressed in the group stage with disciplined defending and quick counter-attacks. Could this be an upset in the making?

### 🇳🇱 Netherlands vs 🇲🇦 Morocco — Tuesday, June 30

One of the most intriguing ties of the round. Morocco played fearless, street-football style football in the group stage, while the Netherlands has experience in spades. This one has upset written all over it.

### 🇫🇷 France vs 🇸🇪 Sweden — Tuesday, June 30

France remain the team to beat according to World Cup power rankings, sitting comfortably at #1. Sweden will need a near-perfect performance to knock out the defending champions.

### 🇩🇪 Germany vs 🇵🇾 Paraguay — Monday, June 29

Germany are in a strange place — trapped between past and future, struggling with identity on the pitch. Paraguay is a tough, organized side that won’t give them any room to breathe.

## Power Rankings Update

According to recent analysis, France still sits atop the power rankings. But there have been some big movers:

– **Algeria** climbed 26 places — one of the biggest jumps
– **Morocco** continue their strong form from 2022
– **USA** (Group D winners) face Bosnia and Herzegovina in a winnable tie

## What Happened to Scotland?

Steve Clarke has resigned as Scotland manager after the team failed to advance from the group stage. The SFA is now searching for a replacement, with calls to look beyond Scotland’s borders for fresh leadership.

## Upcoming Schedule (Round of 32)

## FAQ

**Q: How many teams advance from the Round of 32?**
A: 16 winners advance to the Round of 16. It’s a straight knockout format.

**Q: Where is the 2026 World Cup final being held?**
A: MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey — just outside New York City.

**Q: Do matches go to extra time?**
A: Yes. If scores are level after 90 minutes, 30 minutes of extra time is played. If still tied, it goes to a penalty shootout.

**Q: Which teams are the favorites to win?**
A: France are the current power ranking #1, but Brazil, Argentina, Spain, and England are all strong contenders.

—

*Will your team bring the trophy home? Stay tuned for more World Cup 2026 coverage right here on PC Master Deals.*

[Check the full World Cup 2026 schedule](https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026)

*This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PC Master Deals earns from qualifying purchases.*

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply