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World Cup 2026 Round of 16: Knockout Stage Delivers Drama
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 kicked off in spectacular fashion on July 4, with two compelling matches that set the tone for the knockout rounds. Co-hosts Canada saw their dream run end at the hands of Morocco, while tournament favorites France survived a gritty Paraguay side to book their quarterfinal spot.
July 4 Results
| Match | Score | Venue | Key Story |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morocco vs Canada | 3-0 | NRG Stadium, Houston | Morocco dominates co-hosts; Ounahi scores brace |
| France vs Paraguay | 1-0 | Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia | Mbappe strikes early; France holds on |
Morocco 3-0 Canada — The Atlas Lions Roar
Morocco delivered a masterclass performance against tournament co-hosts Canada, winning 3-0 at NRG Stadium in Houston. Azzedine Ounahi was the star of the show, scoring twice in the first half to put the match firmly in Morocco’s control. Soufiane Rahimi added a third in the second half to seal a comprehensive victory.
For Canada, this marks the end of a historic World Cup campaign. The Canadians had already made history by winning their first-ever knockout stage match (a 1-0 victory over South Africa in the Round of 32), but Morocco proved too strong. Despite the disappointment, Canadian fans have plenty to celebrate — their team showed tremendous growth on the world stage.
Morocco advances to the quarterfinals where they will face France in what promises to be a thrilling clash in Boston on July 9.
France 1-0 Paraguay — Les Bleus Grind It Out
Defending champions France secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. Kylian Mbappe, as he so often does, provided the moment of magic — scoring early to put France ahead.
Paraguay, who had shocked Germany on penalties in the Round of 32, proved a tough opponent. They defended resolutely and created several chances of their own, but France’s experience and organization held firm. The clean sheet will please French manager Didier Deschamps as his side navigated a tricky fixture without conceding.
France will now face Morocco in the quarterfinals — a rematch of their 2022 World Cup semifinal which France won 2-0.
Upcoming Round of 16 Matches
| Date | Match | Time (ET) | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 5 | Brazil vs Norway | 4:00 PM | MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford |
| Jul 5 | Mexico vs England | 8:00 PM | Estadio Azteca, Mexico City |
| Jul 6 | Portugal vs Spain | 3:00 PM | AT&T Stadium, Dallas |
| Jul 6 | USA vs Belgium | 8:00 PM | Lumen Field, Seattle |
| Jul 7 | Argentina vs Egypt | 12:00 PM | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta |
| Jul 7 | Switzerland vs Colombia | 4:00 PM | BC Place, Vancouver |
Key Storylines to Watch
- Brazil vs Norway: Can Erling Haaland take down the tournament favorites? Norway has been impressive, but Brazil’s depth is unmatched.
- Mexico vs England: A mouthwatering clash at the iconic Estadio Azteca. Mexico has home advantage, but England’s tournament pedigree is formidable.
- USA vs Belgium: The host nation faces a tough Belgian side. Can the USMNT continue their strong run?
- Portugal vs Spain: The Iberian derby — always a classic. Ronaldo vs the new Spanish generation.
FAQ
Q: When is the World Cup 2026 final?
A: The final takes place on July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Q: Which teams have been eliminated so far?
A: Canada and Paraguay are the first two teams eliminated in the Round of 16. They join 16 teams eliminated in the Round of 32 and 16 teams from the group stage.
Q: Where is the quarterfinal match between France and Morocco being played?
A: The France vs Morocco quarterfinal will be played on July 9 in Boston.
Q: How can I watch World Cup 2026 matches?
A: All matches are broadcast on FOX and can be streamed on fuboTV in the United States.
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