Hosts ride home support into World Cup Round of 16

The three co-hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup — Canada, Mexico and the United States have all taken advantage of home support to secure places in the Round of 16, surpassing expectations with impressive performances.

Mexico ended a 40-year wait for a World Cup knockout victory by defeating Ecuador to reach the last 16, where they will face England.

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Winger Julián Quiñones has emerged as one of the tournament’s standout performers with three goals, while coach Javier Aguirre credited the team’s strong connection with supporters for their success.

The United States have also impressed under Mauricio Pochettino, producing exciting attacking football en route to the knockout stage. The Americans defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32 and will now on Belgium despite the suspension of striker Folarin Balogun.

Canada have enjoyed a historic campaign, reaching the knockout rounds for the first time before claiming their maiden World Cup knockout victory with a win over South Africa. Jesse Marsch’s side will now face Morocco as they seek to extend their remarkable run.

The success of all three host nations has underlined the advantage of playing on home soil as the expanded 2026 World Cup heads into its decisive stages