World Cup Round of 32: Spain Seeks First Knockout Victory Since 2010; Ronaldo Leads Portugal Against Croatia

On Thursday, the 2026 World Cup knockout stage continues with three key Round of 32 games. The first match features Spain, the current European champions, aiming to win a knockout game for the first time since their 2010 title run. Spain dominated Group H with two wins and a draw. Their opponent, Austria, has not progressed past the group stage at a World Cup since 1954.

The tournament has seen several surprising results so far. Could Austria pull off an upset against one of soccer’s giants?

Portugal Faces Croatia with Ronaldo Seeking Knockout Goals

Later in the day, Portugal takes on Croatia in Toronto. Cristiano Ronaldo, who has played in eight World Cup knockout matches without scoring, hopes to break that streak. Croatia recovered from their opening loss to England with two straight wins.

Portugal controls possession well but has struggled offensively, managing just 12 shots on target over three games. The winner of this clash will face either Spain or Austria in the Round of 16.

Switzerland and Algeria Battle for a Round of 16 Spot

At night, Switzerland meets Algeria in Vancouver. Algeria hasn't beaten a European team in the World Cup since 1982. They will try to contain Switzerland’s Johan Manzambi, who has scored three goals in the tournament. Under coach Murat Yakin, Switzerland remains unbeaten in their last nine matches.

The winner here advances to meet either Colombia or Ghana in the next round.