The knockout phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has intensified with the quarter-finals now in progress across North America. Fans are eagerly anticipating the outcome of several high-profile matches, including England's encounter with Norway. This stage of the competition sees some of football's biggest nations, such as France, Spain, and Argentina, still vying for the coveted trophy, setting the scene for potential blockbuster semi-final clashes.
This edition of the World Cup is notable for its expanded format, featuring a total of 104 matches, which marks an increase of 40 games compared to the 2022 tournament held in Qatar. The tournament commenced at Mexico City's historic Azteca Stadium, a venue famous for hosting two World Cup finals and iconic moments from Diego Maradona's career in 1986. Mexico and Canada are each hosting 13 matches, while the United States is accommodating the majority with 78 games.
As the competition progresses into its decisive stages, all matches from the quarter-finals onwards will be exclusively hosted within the United States. The grand final is scheduled to take place at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. This geographical shift centralises the climax of the tournament, providing a unified focus for the latter stages.
Among the star players on display, Lionel Messi is widely expected to be participating in his final World Cup. His presence adds a poignant layer to the tournament, as he seeks to cap off a glittering career with another international triumph. The blend of established footballing giants and emerging talents promises an absorbing conclusion to the competition, keeping fans on the edge of their seats as the path to the final becomes clearer.
The expanded format aims to offer more opportunities for nations to compete on the world stage, although it also presents logistical challenges for teams and organisers. The tournament's progression through three host nations before consolidating in the US for the final stages reflects a unique approach to managing such a large-scale international event. As the quarter-finals unfold, the focus now shifts to which teams can overcome their immediate rivals and secure a spot in the semi-finals, moving one step closer to lifting the World Cup trophy.