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The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage is delivering non-stop drama across North America. From Lionel Messi’s timeless brilliance in Miami to Mohamed Salah’s ice-cold Panenka in Dallas, and a FIFA scheduling U-turn involving England and Mexico — here’s everything you need to know from a blockbuster Friday night of World Cup action.
🇦🇷 Argentina vs Cape Verde — Messi Magic in Miami
Lionel Messi continues to defy age. At 39 years and nine days, the Argentine legend scored a brilliant opener against tournament debutants Cape Verde at the Miami Stadium, becoming the oldest South American to score in a World Cup knockout match — surpassing Uruguay’s Obdulio Varela who set the record in 1954 at 36.
Argentina led 1-0 at halftime after Messi’s trademark cut-inside-and-curled finish. Ian Wright described it as “total control and then all lace — beautiful to watch.” Despite being heavy underdogs, Cape Verde impressed with disciplined defending and even forced Emi Martinez into a sharp save from Laros Duarte’s low strike. FIFA’s statisticians confirmed Messi also set a record as the oldest South American knockout-stage scorer in World Cup history.
Gary Neville noted on ITV: “Argentina are not a patch on France but they have a chemistry which is almost indestructible.” If Argentina advance, they will face Egypt in the Round of 16 — setting up a potential Messi vs. Salah showdown in Atlanta.
🇪🇬 Egypt 1-1 Australia (4-2 pens) — Salah’s Panenka Seals History
In Dallas, Egypt made history. The Pharaohs defeated Australia on penalties to win their first-ever World Cup knockout match — their first appearance in the knockout stage since 1934.
Emam Ashour powered Egypt ahead early with a header from Karim Hafez’s cross. But an own goal from Mohamed Hany — his second of the tournament and the 13th own goal of these finals (surpassing the record of 12 in 2018) — dragged Australia back into the game.
The match went to extra time, and then penalties. Up stepped Mohamed Salah, who calmly chipped a Panenka down the middle to set Egypt on course. Defender Hossam Abdelmaguid scored the decisive spot-kick as Egypt won 4-2 in the shootout. Australia defenders Harry Souttar and 18-year-old Lucas Herrington both missed for the Socceroos.
“It’s history,” said an emotional Salah after the match. “I told the boys before the game that this is the biggest stage you can play on. Enjoy it and don’t let the pressure get to you.”
Egypt now joins Morocco in making it the first time two African nations have won a knockout match at a single World Cup.
🏴 England vs Mexico — FIFA U-Turn Drama
England’s Round of 16 clash against Mexico in Mexico City has been at the center of off-field controversy. FIFA had proposed moving the match from its original 18:00 local time slot on Sunday to 12:00 due to forecast thunderstorms — but backed down after both England and Mexican officials strongly objected.
The match will kick off at its original time: 6 PM local (7 PM ET / midnight BST) on Sunday, July 5 at Mexico City Stadium.
In an ironic twist, some England fans were already listing their tickets for resale on FIFA’s official portal for up to £26,000 — with the match now staying in its original prime-time slot. England also received a boost as Declan Rice is reportedly “likely to be available” despite an ongoing injury issue.
Other Key Knockout Results
| Match | Result | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Switzerland vs Algeria | 3-2 🇨🇭 | Boston Stadium |
| Portugal vs Croatia | 4-3 🇵🇹 | Toronto Stadium |
| Spain vs Austria | 3-0 🇪🇸 | Los Angeles Stadium |
| USA vs Turkey | 2-3 🇺🇸* | San Francisco Stadium |
| Canada vs South Africa | 1-0 🇨🇦 | Seattle Stadium |
*USA lost but had already secured top spot in their group with Balogun scoring and being sent off in the group stage.
Upcoming Round of 16 Fixtures
| Match | Date | Time (ET) | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| France vs Sweden | Sat July 4 | 3:00 PM | New York/New Jersey |
| Brazil vs Scotland | Sat July 4 | 8:00 PM | Los Angeles |
| Egypt vs Argentina/Cape Verde | Sun July 5 | TBD | Atlanta |
| England vs Mexico | Sun July 5 | 7:00 PM | Mexico City |
| Spain vs Portugal | Mon July 6 | 3:00 PM | Dallas |
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Argentina win against Cape Verde?
Argentina led 1-0 at halftime through Lionel Messi’s brilliant opener. The second half was still in progress at the time of this report’s publication. Cape Verde gave a spirited performance in their World Cup debut knockout match.
When does England play Mexico?
England vs Mexico kicks off at 6 PM local (7 PM ET / midnight BST) on Sunday, July 5 at Mexico City Stadium. FIFA had proposed moving the match earlier due to thunderstorms but reversed the decision after backlash from both teams.
How did Egypt beat Australia on penalties?
After a 1-1 draw, Egypt won 4-2 on penalties. Mohamed Salah scored a Panenka, while Australia missed two spot-kicks through Harry Souttar (shot over) and Lucas Herrington (hit the bar). It was Egypt’s first-ever World Cup knockout stage win.
What records did Messi break against Cape Verde?
Lionel Messi became the oldest South American to score in the knockout phase of a World Cup, at 39 years and nine days. He surpassed Obdulio Varela of Uruguay (1954) who was 36. Messi also became the oldest Argentine goalscorer in WC knockout history.
Where can I watch the World Cup in the US?
In the US, all matches are broadcast on Fox Sports and streamed on Fubo. For the best viewing experience, check out our guide to the best monitors and TVs for sports.
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Which team are you backing in the 2026 World Cup? Let us know in the comments!