FIFA World Cup 2026: Teams Advancing to the Round of 16

Teams Moving Forward in FIFA World Cup 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has brought together 48 nations across Mexico, Canada, and the United States, creating the largest tournament ever held. This expansion introduced a new knockout stage starting with a Round of 32 instead of the traditional Round of 16.

The Round of 32 kicked off with South Africa facing Canada, marking the start of 16 elimination matches to reduce the teams to 16. Here’s a rundown of the squads that secured their spots in the next phase.

Canada

Canada was the first team to qualify for the Round of 16 after Stephen Estáquito scored a late stoppage-time goal against South Africa. His powerful strike in the 92nd minute ended a 0-0 deadlock, leaving South Africa little time to respond. Canada will face the winner of the Morocco versus Netherlands match.

Brazil

Brazil earned their place despite a rocky start against Japan. Japan took the lead thanks to Kaishu Sano's impressive solo effort. Brazil leveled through Casemiro in the 56th minute, but the match seemed destined for extra time until Gabriel Martinelli netted a stoppage-time winner. Brazil awaits the winner of Norway and Ivory Coast.

Paraguay

A memorable moment for Paraguay came as they ousted Germany in a penalty shootout 4-3 after a 1-1 draw through extra time. José Canale clinched the decisive spot in the sixth round of penalties. Paraguay will meet the victor between France and Sweden.

Morocco

Morocco advanced by defeating the Netherlands on penalties following a 1-1 draw. Cody Gakpo gave the Dutch a 72nd-minute lead, but Issa Diop’s stoppage-time header forced extra time. Morocco prevailed in the shootout, earning a Round of 16 clash against Canada on July 4.

Norway

Erling Haaland's goal was crucial as Norway edged past Ivory Coast 2-1. Despite Ivory Coast pressing hard and leveling at 1-1 through Amad Diallo, Haaland’s late strike sealed the win. This marked Norway's first knockout win at a FIFA World Cup. Norway will play Brazil next.

France

France displayed dominance over Sweden, led by Kylian Mbappé’s brace and a goal from Bradley Barcola. The match saw several near-misses before France took control with three goals, securing their Round of 16 spot against Paraguay.

Mexico

After a weather delay, Mexico claimed a 2-0 victory against Ecuador with goals from Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez. They will face the winner between England and DR Congo in the next round.

England

England staged a late comeback against DR Congo, overturning a 1-0 deficit with two goals from Harry Kane, including a stunning header to take the lead in the 75th minute. England’s next opponent is Mexico in Mexico City.

Belgium

Belgium overcame a 2-0 deficit to beat Senegal 3-2 after extra time. Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans turned the game around in the final minutes, with Tielemans scoring the winning penalty. Belgium will face the winner of the USA and Bosnia and Herzegovina match.

United States

The USMNT advanced by defeating Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0. Folarin Balogun opened scoring before receiving a red card, but Malik Tillman added insurance later. The United States will face Belgium in Seattle.