​The knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup are underway, with surprising results and compelling underdog stories from the group phase, but the heavyweights have all advanced. France, Spain, Brazil, England, Portugal, and reigning champions Argentina are among the teams plotting a path to the final, while teams like Cape Verde, DR Congo, and Bosnia & Herzegovina also have a chance to add memorable chapters to their national soccer histories. Here’s a live look at how the Round of 16 is shaping up.
World Cup HQ and standings are updated with the latest news, full schedule, and ticket information. The official bracket and group standings are organized by Group A through Group L, providing a comprehensive view of which teams have made the Round of 32 and how the knockout phase is developing. All three co-hosts reached the knockout stages, and Canada delivered a memorable start in the Round of 32 in Los Angeles after a dramatic path through the group phase. Canada’s clash with South Africa ended in a tense draw until stoppage time, when Stephen Eustaquio seized a loose ball and fired home a precise shot to clinch a famous victory.
Brazil endured a testing first half against Japan, with Kaishu Sano netting early, but Brazil’s experience and late pressure paid off, with Gabriel Martinelli coming off the bench to score a 95th-minute winner. Paraguay defeated Germany in a dramatic penalty shootout, with Orlando Gill making crucial saves as Jonathan Tah’s spot kick sailed over the bar. Morocco then followed suit, overcoming the Netherlands in penalties after Issa Diop’s stoppage-time strike forced extra time, and Ismael Sabari delivered the decisive moment for the Atlas Lions. Norway also advanced to the knockout stage, with Erling Haaland scoring the decisive goal to secure a 2-1 win over Ivory Coast, marking Norway’s first-ever victory in the knockout rounds.