FIFA World Cup 2026: Teams Advancing to the Round of 16
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States, features 48 nations competing for the title. This larger tournament format introduced a Round of 32 knockout stage before the Round of 16, making the path to the latter more challenging.
The Round of 32 kicked off with South Africa facing host Canada, marking the start of 16 matches that would decide which teams continue forward. Here's a look at the teams that secured their places in the Round of 16 so far.
Canada
Canada was the first to advance, scoring a late winner against South Africa thanks to Stephen Eustaquio’s powerful strike in stoppage time. Despite South Africa's efforts to equalize, the match ended 1-0. Canada will face the winner of Morocco vs. Netherlands next.
Brazil
Brazil overcame an unexpected challenge from Japan. After falling behind due to Kaishu Sano’s impressive run and finish, Brazil leveled through Casemiro. Gabriel Martinelli then scored a stoppage-time winner to seal a 2-1 victory. Their next opponent will be the winner of Norway and Ivory Coast.
Paraguay
A dramatic penalty shootout win over Germany saw Paraguay advance. The match ended 1-1 after extra time, but Paraguay triumphed 4-3 on penalties, with Jose Canale converting the decisive kick. Paraguay is set to meet the winner of France vs. Sweden.
Morocco
Morocco also reached the Round of 16 after beating the Netherlands in a tense penalty shootout. Cody Gakpo’s goal had put the Dutch ahead, but Issa Diop’s stoppage-time header forced extra time. Ismael Saibari’s penalty clinched the win for Morocco, who will take on Canada.
Norway
Norway secured their first knockout round victory in World Cup history by edging out Ivory Coast 2-1. Antonio Nusa opened the scoring, but Ivory Coast equalized late through Amad Diallo. Erling Haaland’s decisive goal in the closing minutes ensured Norway’s progression to face Brazil.
France
France displayed control and precision against Sweden, with Kylian Mbappé starring. After several early chances, Mbappé scored before halftime, followed by Bradley Barcola and another Mbappé goal in the second half, putting the game out of reach at 3-0. France will play Paraguay next.
Mexico
After a weather delay, Mexico beat Ecuador 2-0 with goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez. Mexico awaits the winner of England vs. DR Congo in the upcoming Round of 16 match.
England
England staged a comeback against DR Congo. Trailing 1-0 from an early goal by Brian Cipenga, Harry Kane scored twice late to secure a 2-1 victory. England moves on to face Mexico in Mexico City.
Belgium
Belgium overcame a 2-0 deficit against Senegal. Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans scored late to push the game to extra time, where Tielemans won a penalty and converted it, completing a stunning comeback. Belgium will face the winner of the United States vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina match.
United States
The United States defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0, with Folarin Balogun and Malik Tillman scoring. Balogun, however, received a red card and will miss the next match. The USMNT will face Belgium in Seattle.
