The 2026 World Cup has reached its highly anticipated knockout stages, with a thrilling weekend of last-16 fixtures on the horizon. Following an expanded group phase, the tournament has seen 16 nations eliminated, including Uruguay and Scotland, while many of the pre-tournament favourites have successfully secured their passage to the next round.
Major contenders such as Spain, France, Argentina, Brazil, and England have all demonstrated strong form, topping their respective groups and progressing through what was effectively a round of 32. This tournament marks a significant expansion, featuring 104 matches across North America, a substantial increase of 40 games compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. This enlarged format offers more opportunities for drama and upsets, though the established footballing giants have largely held their ground so far.
The group stage saw the top two teams from each group qualify for the knockouts, supplemented by the eight best third-placed teams. This new structure has added an extra layer of complexity and excitement, keeping more teams in contention for longer. The tournament kicked off in Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium, a venue steeped in World Cup history, having hosted two finals and being the site of Diego Maradona's memorable goals against England in 1986.
Looking ahead, Mexico and Canada are each hosting 13 matches, while the United States will stage the majority with 78 games. From the quarter-finals onwards, all remaining fixtures will be played in the USA, culminating in the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. With football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo likely making their final appearances on this grand stage, the stakes are incredibly high as the competition intensifies.
As the World Cup progresses into its critical knockout phase, fans worldwide will be eagerly watching to see which teams can maintain their momentum and navigate the challenges ahead. The expanded format and multiple host nations have created a unique spectacle, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable conclusion to the tournament.