Argentina, France, Brazil headline World Cup 2026 round of 16 showdowns

The lineup for the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been confirmed following the conclusion of the Round of 32, with defending champions Argentina and South American rivals Colombia claiming the final places in the knockout stage.

Argentina secured qualification after surviving a determined challenge from Cape Verde, recording a dramatic 3-2 victory to keep alive their hopes of retaining the World Cup trophy.

Lionel Messi once again inspired the reigning champions, scoring to maintain his position as the tournament’s leading goalscorer as Argentina booked a last-16 clash against Egypt.

Colombia also progressed after edging Ghana 1-0 in a tightly contested encounter, setting up a Round of 16 meeting with Switzerland.

The knockout phase promises several blockbuster encounters, with former world champions and emerging contenders battling for places in the quarter-finals.

The Round of 16 action begins on Saturday, July 4, with co-hosts Canada taking on Morocco in what is expected to be a fiercely contested encounter. Later the same day, France will face Paraguay as the 2018 world champions continue their quest for another global title.

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Sunday’s fixtures feature another heavyweight contest as five-time champions Brazil lock horns with Erling Haaland’s Norway, while England, led by captain Harry Kane, will take on Mexico in another high-profile clash.

European rivals Portugal and Spain will renew their long-standing football rivalry on Monday in one of the standout fixtures of the round. The day’s second match will see the United States face Belgium for a place in the last eight.

The Round of 16 concludes on Tuesday, with defending champions Argentina taking on Egypt, while Switzerland will battle Colombia in the final knockout fixture.

With the competition entering its decisive stage, the race for the FIFA World Cup title is expected to intensify as 16 nations continue their pursuit of football’s biggest prize.

2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 Fixtures

Saturday, July 4

Canada vs Morocco

Paraguay vs France

Sunday, July 5

Brazil vs Norway

Mexico vs England

Monday, July 6

Portugal vs Spain

United States vs Belgium

Tuesday, July 7

Argentina vs Egypt

Switzerland vs Colombia