The FIFA World Cup 2026 has delivered one of its most thrilling rounds yet, with the expanded 48-team format producing a Round of 32 packed with drama, upsets, and historic moments across stadiums in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Germany Stunned by Paraguay in Penalty Thriller
Four-time world champions Germany have been knocked out of the 2026 World Cup in stunning fashion, losing to Paraguay in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in Boston. Arsenal forward Kai Havertz and Newcastle’s Nick Woltemade both missed from the spot as Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill emerged as the hero.
Julio Enciso had headed Paraguay into a shock lead before halftime, but Germany equalized through Havertz’s glancing header from Florian Wirtz’s cross. With extra time failing to separate the sides, Paraguay held their nerve in the shootout as Jose Canale scored the decisive penalty to send his nation through to the last 16. For Germany, it marks yet another early World Cup exit.
Mbappe Becomes All-Time World Cup Knockout Top Scorer
Kylian Mbappe continues to rewrite the record books. The French superstar scored twice as Les Bleus cruised past Sweden 3-0 in New Jersey, taking his World Cup knockout-stage tally to 10 goals — the most in tournament history. Mbappe now shares the Golden Boot lead at this World Cup with Argentina’s Lionel Messi, both on six goals.
Bradley Barcola added the second for France, while Michael Olise provided two assists in a dominant performance. France will now face Paraguay in Philadelphia for a place in the quarter-finals.
Kane Rescues England Against DR Congo
England were staring at one of their most embarrassing World Cup exits when Brian Cipenga gave DR Congo an early lead in Atlanta. But captain Harry Kane produced a stunning rescue act, heading the equalizer in the 75th minute before lashing home a sensational winner on the turn four minutes from time. The victory sets up a blockbuster last-16 clash against co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium.
Ronaldo’s Dramatic Farewell and Ramos’ Winner
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first-ever World Cup knockout goal from the penalty spot, becoming the oldest player to start a knockout match at 41, but it was substitute Goncalo Ramos who grabbed the headlines. Ramos headed home a 94th-minute winner to give Portugal a 2-1 victory over Croatia in Toronto. Josko Gvardiol thought he had equalized deep into stoppage time, but VAR ruled it out for offside. Portugal will now face European champions Spain in Dallas in a mouthwatering clash.
In an emotional post-match moment, Ronaldo wore the jersey of his late teammate Diogo Jota — the anniversary of his passing just hours away — as tears filled his eyes while celebrating with Portugal’s fans.
Canada Makes History
Co-hosts Canada reached the World Cup last 16 for the first time in their history after Stephen Eustaquio’s dramatic 92nd-minute winner against South Africa in Los Angeles. Jesse Marsch’s side, who had lost all six of their previous World Cup matches, have been one of the stories of the tournament. They will face either the Netherlands or Morocco in Houston.
Round of 16: Key Fixtures Ahead
- Paraguay vs France — Philadelphia
- Canada vs Netherlands/Morocco — Houston
- Portugal vs Spain — Dallas
- England vs Mexico — Mexico City (Azteca Stadium)
FAQ
When is the World Cup 2026 Round of 16 being played?
The Round of 16 matches are scheduled from July 4 through July 6, 2026, across venues in the United States and Mexico.
Which teams are the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup?
With Germany eliminated, France, Argentina, and Brazil remain among the top favorites. Host nation Mexico and a resurgent England side also look dangerous. Portugal’s dramatic win over Croatia keeps Cristiano Ronaldo’s dream alive.
How does the new 48-team format work?
The 2026 World Cup features 48 teams divided into 12 groups of four. The top two from each group plus the eight best third-placed teams advance to the Round of 32, followed by the Round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final.