World Cup 2026 reaches its knockout phase
The tournament has moved into its round of 16, with matches set to unfold between July 4 and July 7 across several host cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The fixtures mark the first decisive step toward the championship, after which the quarter‑finals will run from July 9 to July 12, the semi‑finals on July 14 and 15, and the ultimate final on July 19 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Key match‑ups on the opening day
On July 4, Canada will meet Morocco in Houston while Paraguay take on France in Philadelphia. The following day Brazil will face Norway in New Jersey, and Mexico will host England in Mexico City. In the evening, Portugal will square off against Spain in Arlington, and the United States will welcome Belgium in Seattle. The day will also see Argentina clash with Egypt in Atlanta and Switzerland meet Colombia in Vancouver.
Quarter‑finals and beyond
The quarter‑final round is slated for July 9 through July 12, followed by the semi‑finals on July 14 and 15. Those matches will determine the two finalists who will contest the championship game on July 19, again in New Jersey.
With a spread of venues across three nations, the 2026 World Cup promises a vibrant atmosphere and a unique blend of cultures as teams battle for glory in what is already being hailed as the most geographically diverse tournament in history.