Updated 2026 World Cup Knockout Bracket and Schedule

The knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup have kicked off, stirring excitement and unexpected results. Although some underdog stories emerged during the group phase, top teams like France, Spain, Brazil, England, Portugal, and reigning champs Argentina advanced, ready to chase glory. Meanwhile, nations such as Cape Verde, DR Congo, and Bosnia & Herzegovina have a chance to carve out memorable moments in their football history.

Round of 32 Highlights

All three host countries made it through, with Canada starting the knockout stage memorably in Los Angeles. In a tense match against South Africa, Canada’s Stephen Eustaquio scored a late winner, sealing a 1-0 victory that will be remembered by Canadian fans for years.

Brazil faced a tough first half against Japan but managed a comeback with goals from a veteran midfielder and Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli, who scored the decisive goal in stoppage time to secure a 2-1 win.

Paraguay shocked many by defeating Germany 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, thanks largely to goalkeeper Orlando Gill’s penalty saves. Morocco followed with their own penalty shootout triumph over the Netherlands after Issa Diop equalized late in stoppage time, and Ismael Sabari became the hero in extra time.

Norway, powered by Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, earned their first knockout win ever by beating the Ivory Coast 2-1. France, last World Cup finalists, cruised past Sweden 3-0 with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice.

Mexico impressed with a 2-0 win over Colombia at Azteca Stadium, keeping a clean sheet for the fourth straight match. They now face England, who edged past DR Congo 2-1 thanks to two goals from Harry Kane after falling behind early.

Belgium staged a thrilling comeback against Senegal, turning a two-goal deficit into a 3-2 victory in extra time, setting up a clash with either USA or Bosnia & Herzegovina next.

How the Knockout Format Works

The Round of 16 is the second elimination phase, where every match must produce a winner. Draws after 90 minutes lead to 30 minutes of extra time. If still tied, a penalty shootout decides the advancing team. The bracket, set after the group stage, outlines each team's path toward the final.