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The 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up as the Round of 32 delivers drama, tears, and history across North America. With knockout matches being played in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament has already served up unforgettable moments. Here’s your complete roundup of the action from July 3, 2026.
Portugal 2-1 Croatia: Ronaldo Scores First World Cup Knockout Goal
In what might be the most dramatic game of the tournament so far, Portugal edged past Croatia 2-1 in a thriller that had everything — a penalty, a 94th-minute winner, and a controversial VAR call.
Cristiano Ronaldo, now 41 years old, became the oldest player to start a World Cup knockout match and scored his first-ever World Cup knockout goal from the penalty spot. But it was substitute Goncalo Ramos who stole the show, heading home a dramatic winner in the 94th minute after a brilliant Rafael Leao cross.
Croatia thought they had equalized deep into stoppage time through Josko Gvardiol, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside after a touch from Igor Matanovic left Mario Pasalic in an offside position.
Portugal will now face European champions Spain in the Round of 16 on Monday, July 6 at the Dallas Stadium, Texas.
Egypt 1-1 Australia (4-2 Pens): Salah’s Panenka Makes History
Mohamed Salah produced an ice-cool Panenka penalty as Egypt defeated Australia on penalties to claim their first World Cup knockout victory since 1934 — a 92-year wait finally over.
The match ended 1-1 after extra time, with Emam Ashour scoring for Egypt and Mohamed Hany’s unfortunate own goal leveling for Australia. Egypt converted all four penalties in the shootout while Australia missed two.
An emotional Salah said: “It’s history. 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 advances to face the winner of Argentina vs. Cape Verde in the Round of 16.
Switzerland 2-0 Algeria: Swiss End 88-Year Drought
Switzerland secured their first World Cup knockout win since 1938 with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Algeria. Goals from Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye sealed the win in Vancouver.
Upcoming World Cup 2026 Matches
| Date | Match | Stage | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 4 | Colombia vs. Ghana | Round of 32 | TBD |
| July 4 | Argentina vs. Cape Verde | Round of 32 | TBD |
| July 6 | Portugal vs. Spain | Round of 16 | Dallas, TX |
| July 7 | Switzerland vs. TBD | Round of 16 | Vancouver, Canada |
FAQ
Has Ronaldo ever scored in a World Cup knockout match before?
No. Despite being the all-time men’s international goalscorer, Ronaldo had never scored in the knockout rounds of the World Cup until this match against Croatia. At 41 years old, he also set a record as the oldest player to start a World Cup knockout game.
When was the last time Egypt won a World Cup knockout match?
Egypt’s last knockout win was in 1934 — 92 years ago. This is also the first time two African nations (Egypt and Morocco) have won knockout matches at the same World Cup.
Where can I watch World Cup 2026 matches in the US?
In the US, matches are broadcast on Fox Sports and available for streaming on FuboTV. Check your local listings for specific match times.
What is the World Cup 2026 format?
The 2026 tournament has expanded to 48 teams, with a Round of 32 knockout stage before the traditional Round of 16. The tournament is hosted across 16 venues in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Final Word
The 2026 World Cup is proving to be one of the most unpredictable and exciting tournaments in history. With legends like Ronaldo and Salah still delivering on the biggest stage, anything can happen. Stay tuned for more action as the Round of 16 takes shape this weekend.
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