World Cup 2026: Teams That Have Made It to the Round of 16

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the largest ever, featuring 48 teams competing across Mexico, Canada, and the United States. This expansion changed the knockout stage structure, kicking off with a Round of 32 instead of the usual Round of 16.

The Round of 32 started on Sunday, highlighted by host Canada facing South Africa in the opening match. These 16 encounters decided which teams would move forward, narrowing the field to 16 contenders. Here's a rundown of those who have secured their spots.

Canada

Canada became the first team to advance to the Round of 16 after Stephen Eustaquio scored a stunning goal deep into stoppage time against South Africa, breaking a 0-0 deadlock. South Africa fought hard for an equalizer but ran out of time. Canada is set to face the winner between Morocco and the Netherlands.

Brazil

Brazil’s match against Japan was intense and unpredictable. Japan opened the scoring through Kaishu Sano’s impressive solo effort. Brazil equalized via Casemiro in the 56th minute, and Gabriel Martinelli clinched the win with a stoppage-time goal. Brazil will meet Norway or Ivory Coast next.

Paraguay

In a thrilling penalty shootout, Paraguay eliminated Germany 4-3 after a 1-1 draw in regular and extra time. Jose Canale sealed the victory in the sixth round of penalties. Paraguay will challenge the winner of France and Sweden.

Morocco

Morocco triumphed over the Netherlands in penalties following a 1-1 draw. Cody Gakpo gave the Dutch a lead before Issa Diop leveled the score in stoppage time. Ismael Saibari’s successful penalty sent Morocco into the next round where they’ll meet Canada.

Norway

Erling Haaland scored the decisive goal that propelled Norway past Ivory Coast. Although Ivory Coast matched Norway late in the game, Haaland’s strike held firm despite Ivory Coast’s final efforts. This marks Norway’s first knockout round win at a World Cup. Their next opponent is Brazil.

France

France delivered a commanding performance against Sweden. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring before halftime and added another later. Bradley Barcola also found the net. France shut down any Swedish comeback attempts and will face Paraguay in the Round of 16.

Mexico

After a weather delay, Mexico secured a 2-0 victory over Ecuador. Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez scored early goals. Mexico’s next challenge comes from the winner of England and DR Congo.

England

England staged a late comeback against DR Congo. Brian Cipenga’s early goal had put DR Congo ahead, but Harry Kane equalized and then scored the winning goal before full time. England now heads to Mexico City to take on Mexico.

Belgium

Belgium’s 3-2 win over Senegal mirrored their inconsistent form. Trailing 2-0 with 15 minutes left, Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans scored to force extra time. Tielemans won a penalty in extra time, converting it himself for the game-winner. Belgium faces the winner of the US and Bosnia and Herzegovina match.

United States

The US secured progression with a 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Folarin Balogun scored just before halftime but received a red card later, leaving the team a man down. Malik Tillman added a second goal, ensuring victory. The US will meet Belgium in Seattle.