The knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup has arrived, and the first set of round‑of‑16 fixtures are already generating buzz across North America.
Matches are scheduled to be played in Houston, Texas, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, bringing the global tournament to two of the United States’ most vibrant soccer markets.
Canada Meets Morocco in Houston
Canada will open its campaign against Morocco in Houston, a clash that pits a young Canadian side against a disciplined Moroccan squad known for its tactical resilience.
Both teams have navigated challenging group phases, and the encounter is expected to test the limits of endurance and strategy as the tournament progresses.
France’s Star Mbappé Faces Paraguay in Philadelphia
France, led by star forward Kylian Mbappé, will meet Paraguay in Philadelphia, a match that promises fireworks given Mbappé’s blistering speed and Paraguay’s defensive organization.
Mbappé’s presence adds a layer of excitement, as fans anticipate whether his individual brilliance can tip the balance in a contest that also features a resilient Paraguayan side.
The visual narrative of these opening ties has been assembled by AP photo editors, who have selected a series of striking images that capture the anticipation, the fan energy, and the historic moments unfolding on the field.
As the tournament moves forward, the early results will set the tone for the knockout rounds, with each match offering a glimpse of the competition’s evolving dynamics.