With Michael Olise walking a disciplinary tightrope due to his yellow card, France needs every available weapon for a crucial game against Morocco. Tchouameni didn’t feature in the starting lineup against Paraguay, but he may be ready to face the African side on Thursday.

Didier Deschamps, manager of France, revealed that the Real Madrid midfielder is feeling better of his thigh injury and could feature in the game against Morocco, though it remains uncertain whether he will start or come off the bench.

“Aurelien is better, but I left early this morning. He’s the only one who needs to be seen, but he’s doing better. He might participate in the training session today,” Deschamps said on Wednesday.

Morocco seeks revenge against France

In the head-to-head between France and Morocco, the European side has historically held the upper hand. Adding to this, Les Bleus share recent World Cup history with the Atlas Lions following their high-stakes encounter four years ago.

In Qatar 2022, France and Morocco met in the semifinals. Les Bleus secured a 2-0 victory in regulation time to eliminate Morocco and advance to the grand final, leaving the Atlas Lions with unfinished business.

Now, Morocco seeks revenge. While it is a different stage of the tournament, the Atlas Lions want to be the ones advancing this time, although the disparity in squad market values leaves many believing Les Bleus are once again the favorites to win.

Will Aurelien Tchouameni leave Real Madrid after the 2026 World Cup?

Despite reports suggesting Aurelien Tchouameni could leave Real Madrid after the 2026 World Cup, all signs point to the midfielder remaining in Spain for several more years.

Real Madrid insider Pepe Alvarez reported that the club is set to offer Tchouameni a new contract that would run through the 2031 season. Manchester United was reportedly interested in signing him, yet the cost was deemed too high, forcing the English side to step back from the race.

Trailing 1-0 early in the match, Argentina were awarded a penalty against the African side. Uncharacteristically, Messi failed to convert from the spot—and despite his team’s eventual heroic comeback, that costly miss weighed heavily on the legendary forward throughout the night.

“I cried because I felt that I let my teammates down because of the penalty I missed… and the way I took it,” Messi said. “But thankfully once again, God had something special for me in the end. I’m very happy.”

Lionel Messi continues making World Cup history

By missing from twelve yards out, Messi etched his name into the record books for the wrong reasons with an unfortunate World Cup statistic. However, he quickly redeemed himself in the second half, assisting Cristian Romero for Argentina’s opening goal before netting his eighth goal of the tournament just minutes later to draw level.

With that strike, Messi achieved a feat not seen at the tournament since the 1930 World Cup. His goal also widened his lead over Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland at the top of the scoring charts, turning up the heat in an intense race for the Golden Boot.

Despite his heroic solo performance, Messi deflected praise to his teammates following the victory. The captain acknowledged it was a grueling, hard-fought win, emphasizing that every single player was crucial in keeping the dream of back-to-back World Cup titles alive.

Egypt voice fierce accusations

The drama didn’t end at the final whistle. After the match, Egypt manager Hossam Hassan openly accused match officials of favoring Messi and Argentina, claiming several controversial refereeing decisions directly caused the African side’s defeat.

Hassan was far from the only member of the Egyptian contingent fuming over the officiating. Mostafa Ziko also blasted the refereeing crew alleging that the game was ‘rigged’ to ensure Messi and Argentina advanced to the next round.

“This group never gives up, we fight until the very end,” Messi, who broke into tears after the win, said. “We managed to turn the game around—what this group did today is just crazy. I’m incredibly happy and so glad the fans can keep enjoying what we do.”

Messi spearheaded the frantic fightback, providing a crucial assist before netting his eighth goal of the tournament to level the score at 2-2 in a matter of minutes. Shortly after, a dramatic header from Enzo Fernandez sealed the 3-2 victory, punching Argentina’s ticket to the quarterfinals, where they now await their next opponent.

Lionel Messi acknowledges it has not been an easy World Cup

For many fans, the 2026 World Cup has been full of surprises due to the emergence of multiple dark horses. Lionel Messi shares that sentiment, confirming that the tournament has been a grueling test for the reigning defending champions.

“I’m so happy we qualified, things had gotten really difficult,” Messi added. “We suffered immensely once again, but this is the World Cup. Every single match is turning out this way.”

Egypt held a commanding 2-0 lead until the 79th minute, when Messi stepped up with a brilliant assist for Cristian Romero. Just four minutes later, the icon made World Cup history by netting his eighth goal of the tournament. Egypt had kept Argentina pinned against the wall for most of the match, until the La Albiceleste captain took matters into his own hands to spark the historic turnaround.

Argentina keep the dream alive

While Egypt’s coach voiced frustrations over favoritism towards Messi and Argentina, the reality remains that the South Americans advanced after the African side failed to protect a solid 2-0 advantage with less than 11 minutes remaining in regulation.

Now, Argentina await their next opponent in the quarterfinals. The dream of securing back-to-back World Cup titles remains firmly alive, but it will be a treacherous road ahead in one of the most fiercely competitive tournaments in recent history.

Trailing 2-0 in the 79th minute, Argentina found a miraculous path to victory spearheaded by Lionel Messi, who had previously missed a penalty against Egypt. The Argentine captain provided a crucial assist and then netted his eighth goal of the tournament to spectacularly level the score in less than four minutes.

Deep into stoppage time, Enzo Fernandez sealed the dramatic 3-2 victory for La Albiceleste with a terrific header. At the final whistle, Lionel Messi bursted into tears after anchoring one of the most epic comebacks in World Cup history. “He deserved to cry,” Lautaro Martinez said about Messi after the game. “Because he is our example, our guide, the one who helped us the most.”

Lionel Messi endured a nightmare start to the match

In the 15th minute, Egypt’s Yasser Ibrahim opened the scoring following a lightning-fast counter-attack by the African side. Just six minutes later, Argentina were thrown a lifeline when they were awarded a penalty, but Lionel Messi uncharacteristically missed from the spot, making some unwanted history with the failed attempt.

Following a disastrous first half, Argentina threw everything forward in the final 45 minutes to level the score. However, another clinical counter-attack by Egypt culminated in a goal from Mostafa Ziko, extending their lead to 2-0 and leaving the South Americans facing an absolute mountain to climb.

Fortunately, Messi stepped up precisely when his country needed him most. The captain delivered a brilliant assist to Cristian “Cuti” Romero before finding the back of the net himself just four minutes later. With that strike—achieving a spectacular World Cup feat not seen since 1930—Messi single-handedly dragged his nation back onto level terms, setting the stage for Enzo Fernandez to win it just moments later.

Tom Brady left awestruck by Argentina’s historic turnaround

In the wake of the epic comeback, sports icons worldwide praised Argentina’s incredible resilience and performance. NFL legend Tom Brady even remarked that this spectacular fightback might eclipse his own iconic 28-3 Super Bowl comeback with the New England Patriots against the Atlanta Falcons.

Following its victory over Paraguay, both the opponent and venue for France’s quarterfinal clash have been locked in. The Europeans will face Morocco—whose own brilliant path to the final remains alive—on July 9 at Boston Stadium.

France is now aiming for another World Cup title to add to its storied history. However, several high-stakes hurdles remain on its path to the final in its quest to capture the championship.

France’s potential matchups are only getting tougher

With their quarterfinal match officially set against Morocco, Les Bleus are also keeping a close eye on which nations advance across the rest of the tournament. On their side of the bracket, France could potentially face Spain, Portugal, Belgium, or the United States in the semifinals.

Should France advance all the way to the final, its potential opponents include the possibility of a blockbuster rematch of the Qatar 2022 final. Les Bleus could face any of the following countries in the title match: Norway, England, Argentina, Egypt, Switzerland, or Colombia.

Les Bleus could get a shot at redemption for their 2022 heartbreak if Argentina orchestrates another deep tournament run.

France faced a grueling test against Paraguay

Paraguay, now eliminated from the 2026 World Cup, shocked the world by eliminating Germany in the Round of 32, which is why many anticipated the South Americans would pose a highly difficult test for France.

Those speculations proved entirely correct. A solitary second-half goal from Kylian Mbappe from the penalty spot was all that separated the two sides, securing a narrow 1-0 victory for France. Their upcoming clash against Morocco will undoubtedly be the toughest test yet for Les Bleus in this tournament.

In the final minutes of the first half, Hakimi and Laryea battled for possession near Canada’s penalty box. The Moroccan star gave the Canadian fullback a slight shove, provoking an immediate response and sparking a heated confrontation.

Referee Michael Oliver, who was officiating the Canada vs. Morocco match, had to quickly intervene to separate the two players. The scuffle ultimately resulted in yellow cards for both men, though Laryea believed his reaction was entirely justified given the high stakes and intensity of the match.

“He’s fighting to defend his country and team, and I’m doing the exact same,” Laryea told TSN following the 3-0 defeat. “I got there [to the ball] first and he shoves me. I wanted to defend myself, my country, and my teammates, and show them it was not going to be an easy game. He is one of the best, if not the best, at his position, and it was important to let him know we were not going to let them walk all over us.“

Canada held strong until the second half

Canada’s head coach, Jesse Marsch, expressed belief that his squad outperformed Morocco for large stretches despite the definitive final scoreline. He certainly has a case for the opening half, as the CANMNT provided stubborn opposition during the first 45 minutes, successfully keeping the match scoreless against the odds.

However, the second half proved disastrous for Canada. The collapse began in the 50th minute with an opening goal from Azzedine Ounahi. As the Canadians pushed forward in a desperate attempt to level the score, Morocco ruthlessly exploited the vacated spaces, netting two more goals to comfortably seal the 3-0 victory.

Despite the painful exit, this tournament marks Canada’s most successful FIFA World Cup run in history. Now, all eyes turn toward the 2030 cycle, with a growing long-term project that gives soccer fans across the country plenty of reason to believe better things are on the horizon.

Following France’s match against Sweden in the Round of 32, rumors quickly emerged regarding a potential injury to the midfielder. Soccer insider Fabrizio Romano reported on Saturday morning that Tchouameni would miss the upcoming knockout match against Paraguay. He appears on the bench, yet he is not expected to see any activity against the South Americans.

Following the confirmation of the France vs Paraguay matchday kits, Les Bleus’ starting lineup was also locked in. Head coach Didier Deschamps’ starting XI is notably missing Tchouameni, who has been benched and is expected to sit out today’s encounter due to a thigh injury.

How severe is Aurelien Tchouameni’s injury?

According to Romano, Tchouameni’s thigh injury is not overly severe. Provided France manages to defeat Paraguay and advance, the midfielder is expected to be fully recovered and available for selection in the quarterfinals if Les Bleus defeat the South American squad.

Who will replace Aurelien Tchouameni against Paraguay?

France will face Paraguay at Philadelphia Stadium with a formidable starting lineup despite the sudden setback. Tchouameni’s absence has prompted manager Didier Deschamps to give Adrien Rabiot the nod to start in the heart of the midfield.

France’s starting XI to face Paraguay: Mike Maignan; Jules Kounde, Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba, Lucas Digne; Manu Kone, Adrien Rabiot; Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola; Kylian Mbappe.

The match between Switzerland and Colombia will take place on Tuesday, July 7, at 4:00 PM (ET) at BC Place in Vancouver. As the final fixture of the Round of 16, this clash will determine the last nation to book its ticket to the quarterfinals.

With the Round of 16 bracket finalized, only 16 nations remain. This round will also mark the final stage of the tournament where all three host nations are actively involved, as the competition will move exclusively to the United States from the quarterfinals onward.

Colombia faced one of the most grueling schedules

By advancing to the Round of 16, Colombia is on the verge of matching its best-ever World Cup campaign. Along the way, Los Cafeteros will also make unique history as the only nation in the tournament to play matches across all three host countries.

Colombia played its opening 2026 World Cup match at the Mexico City Stadium against Uzbekistan. The South Americans then traveled to Guadalajara to face DR Congo, before flying to the United States for their remaining group fixture against Portugal, and the Round of 32 against Ghana. Now, for the Round of 16, they visit the third and final host nation, Canada, to face Switzerland. Should they win, they will head right back to the US for the quarterfinals.

Eight years after reaching the Round of 16 at Russia 2018, Colombia is back among the top 16 teams on the planet. In that tournament, Los Cafeteros also faced European opposition in the first knockout round, where they were heartbreakingly eliminated by England.

James Rodriguez, who took the pitch as Colombia‘s captain against Ghana, struggled to make an impact during the first half. According to Sofascore, the midfielder slumped to a 4.8 rating after the first 45 minutes.

For that reason, manager Nestor Lorenzo decided to replace him at halftime with Richard Rios. The move appeared to be a purely tactical decision rather than a substitution forced by an injury.

James Rodriguez is far from his best shape

Colombia achieved its best-ever World Cup finish in Brazil 2014, when the nation advanced all the way to the quarterfinals. In that tournament, James Rodriguez shone on the global stage, delivering a string of masterclasses that earned him a blockbuster transfer to Real Madrid.

Nevertheless, those glory days are a far cry from the midfielder’s current form. Having recently joined MLS side Minnesota United, Rodriguez secured a spot on the 2026 World Cup roster but is definitely not playing at the same explosive level he displayed back in 2014.

Throughout the current tournament, James Rodriguez has registered neither a goal nor an assist. His sluggish performance against Ghana was the deciding factor for manager Nestor Lorenzo, who opted to substitute his captain at halftime to inject more verticality and defensive dynamism into the midfield with Richard Rios.

At 34 years old, Rodriguez appears destined to wind down his career either in Major League Soccer or via a sentimental return to his native Colombia. However, this will almost certainly be his final World Cup appearance unless he can somehow recapture a fragment of the elite quality that once made him one of the most feared playmakers in world football.

In the history of the World Cup, Colombia’s finest hour came at Brazil 2014. Los Cafeteros marched all the way to the quarterfinals, winning four consecutive matches in spectacular fashion before finally bowing out to the hosts in a hard-fought knockout clash.

After failing to qualify for a single tournament since 2002, Colombia made a triumphant return in 2014, dominating Group C alongside Greece, Japan, and the Ivory Coast. Los Cafeteros swept the group stage with a perfect three wins out of three, firing in nine goals while conceding just two.

A history defined by inconsistency

Colombia has qualified for seven FIFA World Cups in total. Their tournament debut came back at Chile 1962, where the South Americans were eliminated in the group stage, ultimately finishing 14th overall.

The nation’s most consistent era occurred during the 1990s, when they locked down three consecutive World Cup appearances from 1990 to 1998. Unfortunately, that cycle ended on a bitter note at France 1998, where a disappointing group-stage exit left them in 21st place—historically their lowest-ever finish in the competition.

Following stellar 5th and 9th-place finishes in 2014 and 2018 respectively, expectations were sky-high for the South American heavyweights. However, Los Cafeteros suffered a shocking collapse during the grueling qualification cycle, failing to even book a ticket to the 2022 tournament before bouncing back for the expanded 2026 edition.

The furthest Ghana has ever advanced in a World Cup came during the 2010 tournament in South Africa. In that historic edition, the African side marched all the way to the quarterfinals, ultimately losing to Uruguay on penalties following one of the most dramatic and controversial finishes in football history.

Deep into stoppage time of extra time, Uruguay’s Luis Suarez deliberately cleared a goalbound Ghanaian header off the line with his hands. The referee immediately showed the striker a straight red card and awarded a penalty to Ghana. However, Asamoah Gyan’s potential match-winning spot-kick agonizingly clipped the crossbar, and a heartbroken Ghana subsequently fell 4-2 in the ensuing penalty shootout.

Ghana’s World Cup history is relatively recent

Prior to 2006, Ghana had never featured on soccer’s biggest stage. The West African nation withdrew from qualification cycles twice in its history and failed to qualify for the remaining editions of the tournament.

It wasn’t until Germany 2006 that Ghana finally made its grand World Cup debut. Remarkably, the Black Stars defied the odds by advancing straight to the Round of 16 in their very first appearance, finishing as runners-up in Group E behind an elite Italy side that would go on to lift the trophy.

Though their debut run was halted in the first knockout stage by a 3-0 defeat to powerhouse Brazil, it left a proud yet bittersweet feeling for the African nation, which had rapidly earned a reputation as the ultimate dark horse of the tournament.

What is Ghana’s all-time World Cup record?

Excluding the 2026 edition, Ghana holds a lifetime 5-3-7 record at the FIFA World Cup. Across the four modern tournaments they have contested, the Black Stars have found the back of the net 18 times while conceding 23 goals.

Algeria’s finest World Cup campaign came back in Brazil 2014, where they reached the Round of 16 for the first time in their history. It is worth noting that this milestone was achieved under the traditional 32-team format, a stark contrast to the expanded 48-team format featured in 2026.

Including the 2026 edition, Algeria has qualified for just five World Cups. In their previous four appearances, the North Africans managed to progress past the group stage only once—during that memorable 2014 run.

Algeria was close to making history in Brazil 2014

In Brazil 2014, Algeria defied all expectations with a brilliant group-stage performance. The Fennec Foxes bounced back from an opening 2-1 defeat against Belgium to crush South Korea and secure a dramatic draw with Russia, safely advancing as the runners-up of Group H.

Unfortunately, the Round of 16 presented a monumental hurdle. They pushed Germany to the absolute limit in an epic extra-time battle before ultimately falling 2-1 to the European powerhouse, who would go on to lift the trophy against Argentina in the final.

How the 48-team format benefits Algeria

By securing their ticket to the 2026 edition, Algeria snapped a painful two-tournament drought after missing out on both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. Moving forward, the expanded tournament structure could be exactly what the nation needs to establish itself as a permanent fixture on the global stage.

Holding a historical 3-3-7 World Cup record (excluding the 2026 edition), Algeria aims to lock down qualification far more consistently, capitalizing on the expanded number of direct slots allocated to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for future editions.

Deep into added time, Mario Pašalić kept his composure inside the Portuguese penalty area to assist Joško Gvardiol, who had started the match on the bench. The defender slotted the ball home to seemingly level the score at 2-2, sparking wild celebrations on the pitch.

Everything appeared set for an additional 30 minutes of extra time. However, following a tense, lengthy VAR review, the officials determined that Pašalić was caught in an offside position after Igor Matanović slighlty touched the ball with his head, invalidating Gvardiol’s equalizer and officially securing the hard-fought 2-1 victory for Portugal.

Croatia failed to maintain the advantage

Following a scoreless first half, Croatia heap immense pressure on the Portuguese defense. Early in the second half, Ivan Perišić broke the deadlock to put the Vatreni ahead, a goal that forced Portugal to push forward with far greater attacking urgency.

Portugal’s equalizer eventually arrived when Cristiano Ronaldo finally found the back of the net in a World Cup knockout match. With momentum firmly on their side as the second half drew to a close, Gonçalo Ramos struck to make it 2-1 and complete the dramatic turnaround.

Despite a furious late push from Croatia—which so nearly yielded a legal equalizer—their efforts ultimately fell short. While the Vatreni pack their bags to return home, Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo march on to face Spain in a blockbuster Round of 16 showdown.

In their World Cup history, the quarterfinals represent the furthest Switzerland has ever advanced. The Nati have reached that stage four times: in 1934, 1938, 1954 and most recently in the 2026 edition.

On those occasions, Switzerland finished 7th in the first two tournaments and 8th during the 1954 edition on home soil. Although Switzerland technically achieved a 6th-place finish in the 1950 edition, that particular World Cup featured only 13 participants due to the aftermath of World War II, and the Nati did not advance past the initial group stage. It is yet to be determined their final seeding in the 2026 edition.

Regaining consistency in the modern era

After qualifying for six of the first eight World Cups, Switzerland suffered a prolonged drought, missing out on the tournament from 1970 to 1990 before finally returning for the 1994 edition in the United States.

Following brief absences in 1998 and 2002, the Swiss returned to the grand stage at Germany 2006. Since then, the Nati have successfully qualified for every single World Cup, marking a historic run of six consecutive appearances—a feat never before achieved in the country’s football history.

In the five editions spanning from 2006 to 2022, Switzerland progressed to the Round of 16 four times. The lone exception came at South Africa 2010, where Spain and Chile narrowly edged them out in Group H. Ironically, Switzerland had opened that 2010 tournament with a famous 1–0 victory over Spain, who eventually went on to lift the World Cup trophy.

Switzerland’s all-time world cup numbers

Excluding their matches at the 2026 World Cup, Switzerland has played 41 games in the history of the tournament.

Their precise all-time record stands as follows:

• Matches played: 41
• Record: 14 wins, 8 draws, 19 losses
• Goals scored: 55
• Goals allowed: 73

Portugal and Croatia will square off in Toronto, Canada, in a highly anticipated Round of 32 showdown. Neither squad has been quite as dominant as expected during the group stages, with even Croatia’s FIFA ranking changing for this game against Portugal.

There are several surprises across both starting lineups. For Croatia, the decision to bench star defender Josko Gvardiol stands out the most. Manager Zlatko Dalic, whose profile is outstanding, has opted to keep him among the substitutes in a bold tactical move following some shaky performances earlier in this World Cup.

Josko Gvardiol’s underwhelming 2026 World Cup

This isn’t the first time the center-back has missed out on the opening whistle; Gvardiol started on the bench during Croatia’s crucial match against Ghana as well. He struggled significantly in the opening fixtures against England and Panama, registering uncharacteristically low sub-5.0 match ratings in both games.

Gvardiol was widely regarded as one of the finest defensive talents on the planet during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Newertheless, four years later, he has struggled to replicate that same imperious form, and his uncharacteristic lapses have heavily impacted Croatia’s defensive stability.

Croatia’s starting lineup to face Portugal

The outcome of this heavyweight clash between Portugal and Croatia will completely reshape the rest of the 2026 World Cup bracket. For that reason, Dalic has chosen continuity, electing to field the exact same lineup used to secure their progression against Ghana.

Here is the official Croatia starting XI tasked with shutting down Portugal tonight: Dominik Livakovic; Josip Stanisic, Marin Pongracic, Josip Sutalo; Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric (C), Nikola Vlasic, Martin Baturina, Petar Sucic; Ante Budimir, Ivan Perisic.

After defeating Uruguay in its final group stage match, Spain managed to top Group H in the final standings. Nevertheless, the victory was not quite enough to recover its original place in the global leaderboard.

Spain is currently 3rd overall in the FIFA World Rankings, sitting just behind France (1st) and Argentina (2nd). It remains a razor-thin race at the top that is set to shift drastically before the tournament concludes. But it is a much better position than Austria’s FIFA ranking.

A rollercoaster of emotions for La Roja

Spain has experienced a true rollercoaster of emotions so far in this World Cup. In their opening match, La Roja and Lamine Yamal’s highly anticipated tournament debut were spoiled by Cape Verde in a frustrating 0-0 draw. However, the 2010 champions bounced back in their next two matches to prove their championship credentials.

Spain defeated both Saudi Arabia and Uruguay—a match unfortunately marred by an injury to Nico Williams following a heavy challenge from Nicolas de la Cruz—to securely lock down the top spot in Group H.

Entering the Round of 32, Luis de la Fuente’s squad is once again regarded as a formidable force despite that shocking opening stalemate. La Roja is eager to prove its worth on the big stage, but Austria will provide a stern litmus test. What happens today against Austria could determine Spain’s World Cup campaign.

A tight race for the World No. 1 spot

France is enjoying a flawless 2026 World Cup campaign, which has propelled Les Bleus to the No. 1 spot in the live FIFA rankings. Nevertheless, the margins separating the top three nations remain incredibly small.

Fewer than 40 points separate Spain from France. If La Roja manages to engineer a deep tournament run alongside France, a potential knockout clash between the two powerhouses could dramatically narrow the gap, with Argentina obviously remaining firmly in the mix.

The Round of 16 bracket received an immediate update after Belgium’s thrilling victory over Senegal. The Europeans will now clash with the USMNT, who advanced to the knockouts after a stellar performance against Bosnia and Herzegovina, who are out of the 2026 World Cup.

The USMNT opened the scoring through Folarin Balogun, who celebrated like LeBron James—a move that even prompted a social media reaction from “The King” himself. Now, the Stars and Stripes await Belgium in what promises to be a massive Round of 16 encounter.

When and where will the USMNT face Belgium?

The USA potential path to the final is alive, and they will face Belgium on Monday, July 6, at Seattle Stadium. The Red Devils will be playing back-to-back matches at the Seahawks’ home venue, yet it won’t yield much of a home-field advantage as they square off against the tournament’s co-hosts.

Despite Folarin Balogun’s red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, the North Americans were able to not only maintain their narrow 1-0 advantage but also increase it later in the half thanks to an incredible free-kick goal by midfielder Malik Tillman, who was named Player of the Match.

As for Belgium, they rallied back from a 2-0 deficit to ultimately defeat Senegal 3-2 in extra time. It was a shaky defensive performance by the Europeans, who will take the pitch on Monday no longer carrying the definitive tag of clear favorites. Pulisic lamented Balogun’s red card as the team now faces a huge challenge.

USMNT vs. Belgium head-to-head history

The United States and Belgium have faced each other seven times historically, with the Red Devils asserting clear dominance. They have defeated the USMNT six times, leaving the Concacaf side with just a single victory in 1930 to their name in the matchup.

These two nations recently met during their direct preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Back in March, the USMNT suffered a heavy 5-2 loss to Belgium in a warm-up friendly played in Atlanta.

Curiously, both nations will be wearing their away kits for this match. Belgium presents a primarily turquoise jersey with pink accents and white shorts. Its goalkeeper will be wearing a full yellow kit.

As for Senegal, whose FIFA ranking has been updated for this game, the African side will be wearing a full green kit. The goalkeeper will take the pitch dressed completely in orange.

What color will the referee be wearing?

The refereeing assignments for the Belgium vs. Senegal game are also set. The crew will be wearing red jerseys, which may be a similar tone to Senegal’s goalkeeper kit.

Belgium vs. Senegal scenarios

Whether Belgium wins, draws, or loses against Senegal will define many things in the World Cup. As it is the knockout stage, both nations are desperate to win the game, knowing a defeat means their participation in the tournament is over.

Stepping into the massive shoes left behind by previous generations, the talented shot-stopper has quickly won over fans and coaches alike with his remarkable reflexes, commanding aerial presence, and poise under pressure.

As Mexico fights for glory on the world stage at the 2026 World Cup, where veteran backup Guillermo Ochoa received a big tribute, Rangel’s performances between the posts have become a critical factor for the host nation.

How old is Raul Rangel?

Raul Rangel is 26 years old. He was born on February 25, 2000, in Zapotlan el Grande, Jalisco, Mexico. Entering his prime years as a goalkeeper, Rangel represents both the present and the exciting future of Mexican soccer, bringing modern distribution and a calm demeanor to the national team.

How tall is Raul Rangel?

Raul Rangel stands at an imposing 1.90 meters (6 feet 3 inches). His tall frame and long reach make him a formidable force in the penalty box, allowing him to dominate on aerial crosses, comfortably handle high claims, and close down angles during 1-on-1 situations.

What is Raul Rangel’s current club?

Rangel plays for CD Guadalajara (Chivas), one of the most historic and popular clubs in Liga MX. He is a true product of the institution’s youth academy, having developed through their U20 system and their affiliate side, Tapatio. After breaking into the senior squad, ‘Tala’ quickly earned the starting job and became a fan favorite for the Rebano Sagrado.

Raul Rangel’s international career

After making his senior debut for Mexico in 2024, Rangel’s rise on the international stage has been meteoric. He quickly became a reliable option in the squad, earning medals as part of the teams that won the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup and the 2024–25 CONCACAF Nations League.

By the time the 2026 World Cup arrived, national team manager Javier Aguirre entrusted Rangel with the starting spot. He rewarded that faith with spectacular group-stage displays, keeping crucial clean sheets against South Africa, South Korea, and Czechia to help guide El Tri into the knockout rounds.

Raul Rangel’s social media

Fans looking to follow the goalkeeper’s journey can find him on platforms like Instagram (@raulra_22). Rangel regularly uses his account to share matchday photos, behind-the-scenes looks at training camps with Chivas and the Mexico national team, and glimpses of his personal life outside of soccer.

Erling Haaland, who wears “Braut Haaland” on his jersey, is one of the standout stars of this 2026 World Cup. He helped Norway defeat the Ivory Coast in the Round of 32, and their next knockout clash is definitely one that fans around the globe should not miss.

Haaland and Norway will face Brazil, who defeated Japan 2-1, in the Round of 16. For many pundits, this heavyweight clash is worthy of the tournament’s later rounds, but the Manchester City striker is simply excited that the opportunity has arrived earlier than expected. “To play against Brazil, it will be insane!” Haaland said, via SportyTV.

Erling Haaland is having an outstanding 2026 World Cup

Erling Haaland is playing in his first-ever World Cup, marking Norway’s triumphant return to the grand stage after the nation missed out on the previous six editions of the tournament.

With his clinical strike against the Ivory Coast, Haaland logged his fifth goal of the competition. He currently sits just one goal behind Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot race—a feat made even more impressive considering he completely missed the group-stage match against France.

At 25 years old and surrounded by a rising Norwegian golden generation, Haaland’s future in World Cups looks incredibly bright. He already seems destined for a thrilling, long-term race against Kylian Mbappe to see who will eventually pressure the history books as the tournament’s all-time top scorers in the near future.

When will Norway and Brazil clash?

Exactly when and where Brazil and Norway will square off is one of the most common questions among football fans currently. The two iconic teams will face off at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday, July 5.

The confirmed lineups for Portugal and Colombia are locked in. Both teams feature genuine surprises in their starting elevens, largely because both nations are fighting to decide who walks away as the outright leader of Group K.

In a surprising turn of events, Bernardo Silva is heading to the bench once again, having also been left out of the starting lineup against Uzbekistan. This appears to be a purely tactical decision by manager Roberto Martinez, as the midfielder does not carry an injury designation.

Bernardo Silva’s rough start to the 2026 World Cup

The Portugal vs. Colombia clash will heavily shake up the looks of the Round of 32 bracket. For this reason, Roberto Martínez has opted for a highly calculated lineup to avoid an upset and secure the group leadership with a vital victory.

Unfortunately for Bernardo Silva, he is not currently regarded as an indispensable game-changer for the Europeans. He did start for Portugal in their World Cup debut against DR Congo, but he was hooked at halftime in favor of Francisco Conceicao.

Bernardo Silva recently joined Real Madrid, making an immediate impact on their lineup. However, Roberto Martinez seems to believe there are better tactical options available in his midfield today to inject more raw speed and dynamism against a physical Colombian side.

Notable absences on both sides

While Portugal’s overall blueprint hasn’t shifted drastically this World Cup, a few marquee names are notably absent from the opening whistle. For instance, explosive AC Milan winger Rafael Leao is on the bench today against Colombia. Nelson Semedo joins him among the substitutes, though both are heavily expected to see minutes as the match progresses.

As for Colombia, Daniel Munoz and Luis Suarez also start on the bench. It appears to be a straightforward tactical decision to give the standout right-back a breather after two incredibly intense opening fixtures.

Spain midfielder Pedri was controlling the ball near the center circle when three Uruguayan players converged to win back possession. Among them was Manuel Ugarte, who ultimately came off worst in the challenge.

The Manchester United midfielder stretched to reach the ball and, as the challenge failed, went down to the turf in clear distress. Suffering an apparent left knee injury, he was unable to continue and was substituted for Nicolas de la Cruz.

Uruguay against the wall after 45 minutes

Initially, Uruguay was aiming for a draw with Spain to clinch a spot in the Round of 32. However, things got complicated very quickly for La Celeste.

Alex Baena scored before halftime for Spain following a costly mistake by Fernando Muslera, who was replaced for the second half. With that goal, the Europeans are provisionally knocking Uruguay out of the 2026 World Cup.

While Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia were tied at halftime, a loss for Uruguay would leave them out of the tournament, no matter what happened in the other match. Undoubtedly, this would be one of the biggest disappointments of the tournament and in the history of the Uruguayan national team.

Everything is set for a high-stakes clash between Spain and Uruguay: the uniforms, the referees, and the stadium are locked in. For this match, it is Uruguay who desperately needs a victory—or a draw combined with favorable external results—to guarantee safe passage to the next round.

In the FIFA rankings, Uruguay has slid down several spots since the 2026 World Cup started. Entering this crucial match against Spain, the South Americans hold the 19th overall position due to two unexpected results in the group stage.

Why has Uruguay dropped places in the FIFA rankings?

Uruguay started the 2026 World Cup with a frustrating draw against Saudi Arabia. Because their opponents are positioned much lower in the FIFA rankings, the Charruas forfeited 11.12 points in the live standings.

In their following match, the South Americans also drew with Cape Verde. Just as it was with the Saudi Arabia fixture, failing to defeat one of the lower-ranked nations in this tournament cost Uruguay dearly, stripping them of another 11.99 points.

Entering Matchday 3 against Spain, whose own FIFA ranking has fluctuated, Uruguay sits at 19th overall with 1,649.96 points. While a victory or a draw could see the Charruas surpass Senegal for 18th place, it is highly unlikely they will recover their pre-tournament 16th position after today’s game.

Uruguay needs a win, but a draw could still suffice

If Uruguay defeats Spain, they won’t have to rely on outside help to punch their ticket to the Round of 32. However, a draw complicates their mathematical survival significantly.

Should Uruguay and Spain share the points in Guadalajara, the South Americans will face a tense waiting game, relying on a complex web of positive outcomes to advance either as the group runners-up or as one of the best third-placed teams in the 2026 World Cup.

Spain entered the 2026 World Cup with 1,874.71 points in the FIFA rankings. However, La Roja’s unexpected draw with Cape Verde in its tournament debut cost the 2010 champions 18.68 points.

Following its subsequent win over Saudi Arabia, Spain was only able to recover 8.29 points. Entering today’s game against Uruguay, Spain sits at No. 3 overall in the FIFA rankings, trailing only France and Argentina.

A win against Uruguay would boost Spain’s FIFA ranking

Spain faces several distinct scenarios against Uruguay today. While La Roja enters Matchday 3 as the group leader, a poor result combined with external factors could see it drop as low as third place in the group.

Uruguay’s current FIFA ranking has also shifted since the start of the tournament. A victory over the Charruas would provide a welcome boost to Spain’s ranking points, though it likely won’t be enough to reclaim the global number-two spot immediately.

Spain currently holds 1,864.32 points in the FIFA rankings, while second-place Argentina sits at 1,901.93 points ahead of their match against Jordan. If La Roja wins and La Albiceleste suffers a shock defeat, Spain could theoretically leapfrog them, but it remains a highly complicated and unlikely scenario.

Spain vs Uruguay head-to-head history

Spain and Uruguay have met seven times in their history. Unfortunately for the South Americans, the historical record clearly favors the Europeans.

Spain has won four of those seven encounters and has never lost to Uruguay, drawing the remaining three matches. The two sides last met twice in 2013, with both matches ending in victories for La Roja.

In the previous game against Turkiye, Miguel Almiron was sent off after covering his mouth to say something to an opponent during an argument. Due to the situations involving Gianluca Prestianni and Vinicius Jr., FIFA implemented this new rule to avoid further issues.

Almirón will only miss this match against Australia. If Paraguay advances to the Round of 32, he will be available for his nation’s next match.

Paraguay desperately needs a victory

Entering Matchday 3 in Group D, Paraguay has three points after defeating Turkiye despite Almiron’s red card. However, its ticket to the next round is not yet secured.

If Paraguay defeats Australia, the South Americans will secure their ticket to the Round of 32, no matter what happens between the USMNT and Turkiye.

With a win, Paraguay would reach six points and secure second place. Even if the United States loses, the tiebreaker would give the USMNT the edge to advance as group leaders.

During their previous match against the Netherlands, Kubo suffered a knee injury that immediately raised alarms for the Samurai Blue. Unfortunately, this fitness setback has left him completely unavailable for the vital group finale against the Swedes.

According to camp reports, Kubo did not travel with the Japan to Dallas, instead remaining at their previous base in Nashville to focus on his rehabilitation. With Japan still actively fighting to secure the group leadership, his absence on the wing could prove to be a massive factor in this dynamic matchup.

A tough moment to lose a talisman

Japan’s destiny remains entirely in its own hands, with the permutations of a win, draw, or defeat dictating their final placement. However, losing a player of Kubo’s caliber right at the finish line of the group stage is a bitter pill to swallow.

The Real Sociedad winger is widely regarded as the crown jewel of Japan’s current generation—a true difference-maker capable of sparking the kind of historic knockout run the nation dreams of.

While missing him today is a structural blow, medical reports indicate that Kubo is expected to be fully fit and cleared for the Round of 32. Japan has not officially locked down its knockout ticket just yet. However, its strong goal differential means that even an unexpected defeat today would still leave the Samurai Blue in a premier position to advance as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.

Sweden resents a volatile final test

Led by the clinical form of powerhouse striker Viktor Gyokeres, the Blagult have had a rollercoaster tournament so far. They opened their World Cup campaign in breathtaking fashion by crushing Tunisia 5-1, only to be brought crashing back to earth by the exact same 5-1 scoreline against a ruthless Netherlands squad on Matchday 2.

The Europeans will be desperate to right the ship and claim the group leadership for themselves—a feat they can achieve with a victory over Japan, provided Tunisia pulls off an upset against the Dutch in the parallel fixture. Expect a high-intensity, physical battle from the very first whistle.

During the previous match against Ivory Coast, Schlotterbeck went down with a painful injury and was visibly in distress. Post-match medical evaluations delivered the worst possible news: a devastating left ankle ligament tear, prematurely ending his 2026 World Cup campaign.

According to reports from Sky Germany, the Borussia Dortmund defender could be sidelined for up to two months. This lengthy recovery timeline means he is also in a race against time to be fit for the start of the 2026/27 Bundesliga season.

Who is Nico Schlotterbeck’s replacement?

When Schlotterbeck was forced off at halftime against Ivory Coast, veteran defender Antonio Rudiger stepped in to anchor the backline. The Real Madrid star is the natural and most qualified successor to step into the starting lineup.

While Germany has already comfortably secured its ticket to the Round of 32, losing a fluid starter like Schlotterbeck is a significant blow to the team’s chemistry.

Fortunately for manager Julian Nagelsmann, possessing a replacement of Rudiger’s caliber—renowned for his aggressive defending and elite champions-league experience—ensures Die Mannschaft remains defensively formidable.

Staying with the squad

Despite the heartbreak of a tournament-ending injury, Nico Schlotterbeck has chosen to remain in camp with the German national team for the remainder of the World Cup. He will continue to support his teammates from the sidelines, hoping to celebrate a deep knockout run and potentially a world title with the squad.

With the game comfortably at 2-0, Aguirre made a highly anticipated and emotional substitution for the national team, replacing Raul Rangel with Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa. With this symbolic gesture, the legendary shot-stopper took the pitch in his fourth different World Cup tournament with playing minutes, a milestone the manager believes deserves immense recognition.

“The moment Guillermo Ochoa stepped onto the pitch, it overshadowed everything else,” Aguirre told TV Azteca after the match. “He is a world-class legend, and I am incredibly proud of him.”

Guillermo Ochoa thankful for the tribute

While Mexico awaits their exact opponent for the Round of 32, the post-game spotlight shifted entirely to Ochoa. His teammates swarmed him on the pitch to celebrate the historic moment, leaving the veteran deeply grateful for the gesture.

“It was even better than I dreamed; everything just fell into place,” Ochoa said. “At the beginning, you are always fighting to get on the pitch. Javier makes the decisions, and this time it was my turn to support from the sidelines. But things aligned perfectly—the result, the setting—and I got my chance to play.“

Mexico now shifts its focus entirely to the Round of 32, with its knockout rival set to be finalized on Friday. For that high-stakes elimination matchup, Raul Rangel is expected to return to the starting XI and reclaim his spot between the posts, barring any unexpected tactical changes from the Chivas shot-stopper.

Is Guillermo Ochoa retiring after the 2026 World Cup?

Guillermo Ochoa is 40 years old and has stated that this will be his final World Cup. However, he has also hinted at the improbable possibility of one last international run, despite the fact that he will be 44 years old by the time the 2030 edition arrives.

While Ochoa is not currently expected to retire from club or international duty immediately following the 2026 World Cup, his long-term future may ultimately depend on how this tournament unfolds for both Mexico and himself.

Even without Raul Jimenez in the starting XI against Czechia, Mexico managed to secure a massive victory over the Europeans, a game in which even a tribute for Guillermo Ochoa arrived. By sweeping Group A and locking down a perfect nine points, El Tri has achieved three group-stage victories for the first time in the nation’s storied football history.

Following this historic result, Mexico is slated to face a third-place finisher emerging from Group C, E, F, H, or I. As of today—with several final-round group matches still left to be played across the tournament—Scotland is currently projected to be El Tri’s upcoming knockout opponent.

Date, stadium, and the knockout formula

Because the expanded 48-team format introduces 495 potential matchup permutations for the advancing third-place teams, Mexico’s exact opponent cannot be mathematically locked in just yet.

As one of the tournament’s top-seeded group winners, Mexico is guaranteed a favorable draw against one of the lower-ranked third-place qualifiers. While the specific jersey across the pitch remains a mystery, the logistics for El Tri’s next high-stakes test are already set in stone:

• Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
• Venue: Mexico City Stadium (Estadio Azteca)
• Rival: Final confirmation will come on Friday, June 26, once Groups H and I wrap up the opening-round action.

A historic group stage campaign

Mexico has participated in 18 World Cups, cementing its status among the top five nations with the most appearances in tournament history. Yet, it is the 2026 edition on home soil where El Tri has truly rewritten the record books.

Never before had a Mexican squad managed to win all three of its group-stage matches. While Javier Aguirre’s side had already mathematically locked up the group leadership on Matchday 2, completing the flawless sweep provides an immense psychological boost—fueling the host nation’s hopes of making a historic, deep run through the high-pressure knockout brackets.

The dramatic shift comes after Son’s quiet outing against Mexico at Guadalajara Stadium on Matchday 2. The LAFC attacker struggled to find his footing against the tournament co-hosts, finishing the match with zero shots on target before being substituted in the 57th minute by manager Hong Myung-bo.

That frustrating performance appears to be the primary catalyst for his omission tonight. The decision is purely tactical, as the superstar forward carries no injury designation and remains available to make an impact as a second-half substitute.

South Korea’s round of 32 ticket hangs in the balance

The officiating crew for tonight’s clash between South Korea and South Africa can expect a highly intense environment. With both nations fighting tooth and nail for a spot in the knockout stage, the high-pressure stakes make Hong Myung-bo’s gamble to bench his most seasoned leader all the more staggering.

The battle will take place at Monterrey Stadium, a venue that might offer a unique psychological advantage to the Asian squad. Mexican fans have famously shown immense affection and support toward South Korea in recent tournaments, and that roaring local backing in the stands could provide a crucial lift.

The qualification math remains clear: a victory over South Africa automatically punches South Korea’s ticket to the Round of 32 as the Group A runners-up. Even if Czechia pulls off a surprise upset against Mexico in the parallel fixture, the Tigers of Asia would still advance in second place, booking a marquee knockout matchup against Canada.

Even without Raphinha on the field, A Seleção had no trouble handling business in a crucial match for its Round of 32 positioning. The game turned early on when Vinicius Jr. ruthlessly capitalized on a costly mistake by Scottish defender Scott McKenna, putting everything firmly in favor of the South American giants.

As Group C winner, Brazil is now slated to face the runners-up of Group F. This means that either the Netherlands, Japan, or Sweden will face Carlo Ancelotti’s side in the next round, to be played on June 29.

Everything is open in Group F

Group F swings into action on Thursday, with the Netherlands facing Tunisia and Japan taking on Sweden. As of today, the qualification scenarios remain completely up for grabs in this section.

The Netherlands enter as heavy favorites against an already-eliminated Tunisia, and a victory would secure the group leadership for the Oranje. Meanwhile, Japan only needs a draw to lock down second place, though Sweden still holds a mathematical chance to claim the top spot.

When and where will Brazil play the Round of 32 game?

The Round of 32 showdown between Brazil and the Group F runners-up—designated by FIFA as Match 76—will be played at Houston Stadium on Monday, June 29.

During the 2026 World Cup opening match, FIFA confirmed that an incredible 80,824 fans flooded the stadium to watch Mexico defeat South Africa 2-0. A virtually identical turnout is expected for tonight’s clash.

Even though El Tri has already safely punched its ticket to the Round of 32, the home crowd isn’t about to miss the chance to roar their team across the finish line in this final group-stage test.

A historic cathedral of world soccer

Mexico City Stadium—the legendary Estadio Azteca—is a world-renowned venue that stands as a true cathedral of soccer history.

• A historic first: By hosting matches in 2026, it became the first stadium in soccer history to feature in three separate World Cup tournaments (1970, 1986, and 2026).
• The stage of legends: This is the very pitch where icons like Pele and Diego Maradona cemented their legacies by lifting the iconic trophy.

Tonight, under the bright lights and ahead of a rainy kickoff, the historic venue prepares to add yet another unforgettable chapter to its storied international legacy.

Why Mexico City Stadium Missed Out on the 2026 World Cup Final

When Mexico, Canada, and the United States launched their joint “United Bid” to host the 2026 World Cup, the three nations agreed from the very beginning that the United States would host the tournament’s final match, alongside the majority of the knockout stage games.

For soccer purists, a final at the historic Estadio Azteca—rebranded as Mexico City Stadium for the tournament—would have been a dream scenario. It is, after all, the only venue to have witnessed both Pele (1970) and Diego Maradona (1986) lift the iconic trophy.

However, the logistical and economic framework of the joint bid meant the business end of the tournament belonged north of the border. To balance the scales, FIFA awarded Mexico the prestigious opening match of the tournament, while the grand finale was locked in for New York/New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium).

While El Tri faces various seeding scenarios depending on a win, draw, or loss, the Mexican national team fully intends to leverage its massive home-field advantage to secure a perfect group stage record against the Europeans.

Mexico City Stadium—the iconic Estadio Azteca—will serve as the battleground for this clash. Interestingly, even though this historic venue is the spiritual home of El Tri, Czechia will technically act as the designated “home” team for FIFA’s administrative and broadcasting purposes.

What will the weather be like for Czechia vs Mexico?

Mexico City has experienced highly unpredictable weather shifts since the tournament kicked off. For tonight’s blockbuster matchup, fans heading to the stadium will definitely need to prepare for wet conditions.

• Precipitation: There is a 70% chance of rain, with showers expected to hit the pitch right around the opening whistle.
• Duration: The forecast indicates that light rain will likely persist throughout the entire 90 minutes of play.
• Match Safety: Fortunately, there are currently no signs of severe electrical storms or lightning that would trigger a match suspension under strict FIFA safety protocols.

Czechia aim for a miracle

Entering the final matchday of the group stage, Czechia currently find themselves sitting outside of the virtual Round of 32 qualification spots. A opening-round loss to South Korea followed by a draw against South Africa has left them reeling, but their 2026 World Cup dream isn’t completely dead yet.

To pull off a miracle escape, the formula is straightforward: the Europeans must defeat Mexico. If a Czech victory is paired with a South Africa win over South Korea, they could potentially vault directly into second place. Even if the parallel game doesn’t go their way, a shocking upset against the host nation would give them four points, putting them in prime position to advance as one of the tournament’s best third-placed sides.

Thanks to a solitary goal from Luis Romo, Mexico defeated South Korea 1-0 on Matchday 2. While that victory mathematically locked down the top spot in Group A standings, the co-hosts still have plenty to play for in their group stage finale.

Czechia present the final test of the opening round. The Europeans still harbor faint hopes of advancing, but they must pull off a massive upset against Mexico and rely on a complex chain of outside results to keep their 2026 World Cup journey alive.

What happens if Mexico wins against Czechia?

A victory over Czechia would propel Mexico to a perfect nine points out of a possible nine, something that has never happened in their history. While Javier Aguirre’s side has already secured the group leadership due to its head-to-head tiebreaker over South Korea, maximizing its points tally remains highly advantageous for the knockout phase.

Under the expanded 48-team World Cup format—which allows the best eight third-placed teams to advance—there are 495 potential matchup permutations for the next round. By securing nine points, Mexico would position themselves as one of the highest-seeded group winners, ensuring they face a lower-seeded third-place team in the Round of 32.

What happens if Mexico and Czechia draw?

With a draw, Mexico would finish on seven points, comfortably retaining the top spot in Group A. However, El Tri could slide down the overall seedings of group winners, meaning it might draw a much tougher third-place opponent than it would with a perfect record.

As for Czechia, a single point would effectively end their hopes of moving on. Finishing on just two points would leave them well short of the historical threshold required to advance as one of the tournament’s best third-placed sides.

What happens if Mexico loses to Czechia?

Should Mexico suffer an unexpected defeat, they would remain frozen on six points. Even if South Korea defeat South Africa in the parallel fixture to match them on six points, El Tri is guaranteed to maintain the group leadership because of its head-to-head victory over the Koreans. However, backing into the Round of 32 on a loss would damage squad momentum and likely book it a date with a far more formidable rival in the next round

For Czechia, an upset win would give them four points, putting them in an excellent position to claim a spot in the next round as one of the best third-placed teams. If South Africa also defeat South Korea, Bafana Bafana and the Czechs would finish tied on four points for second place, leaving overall goal difference to determine who secures the automatic runner-up spot behind Mexico.

Brazil’s current FIFA ranking has many believing A Seleção will navigate this fixture without much trouble. However, it remains absolutely critical for Carlo Ancelotti’s side to secure the victory to officially lock down their spot in the Round of 32.

With the venue logistics and a massive expected attendance already locked in for this Brazil vs Scotland clash, both teams are fully primed for an intensely physical match. Here is a look at how both nations are going to take the pitch today.

Brazil’s confirmed starting XI to face Scotland

With Raphinha sidelined due to an injury suffered against Haiti, Carlo Ancelotti will have to rely on his squad depth to fill the void on the wing. While Neymar is fit and available to play, he will start from the bench, expecting to have some activity if the game allows it.

Brazil’s confirmed starting XI: Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Douglas Santos; Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes, Lucas Paqueta; Rayan, Vinicius Jr., Matheus Cunha.

Scotland’s confirmed lineup to face Brazil

After defeating Haiti but falling to Morocco, Scotland still mathematically has a chance to advance—potentially even as the Group C leader. To pull off that top-spot miracle, the Tartan Army would need to defeat Brazil and hope Haiti manages to hold Morocco to a draw or pull off an upset victory.

Scotland’s confirmed starting XI: Angus Gunn; Andy Robertson, Nathan Patterson, Scott McKenna, Jack Hendry; Scott McTominay, Jhon McGinn, Lewis Ferguson, Kenny McLean; Ben Gannon-Doak, and Lawrence Shankland.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Group K table had briefly reshaped following Portugal’s victory over Uzbekistan. However, the Europeans’ stay at the summit was short-lived, as Colombia’s hard-fought triumph against the Leopards propelled the South Americans right back into the top spot.

Following the latest round of matches, the Group K standings shape up as follows:

Are the DR Congo out of the 2026 World Cup?

No, the DR Congo is not eliminated from the 2026 World Cup just yet. While the African side currently occupies third place with only a single point, advancing to the Round of 32 as one of the best third-placed teams with that current tally would be a massive uphill battle for the Leopards.

The DR Congo will face Uzbekistan in their final group-stage test. A victory would elevate them to four points, which would not only significantly boost their chances of advancing as a top third-placed team, but could also potentially vault them into second place.

Should the DR Congo defeat Uzbekistan and Colombia simultaneously beat Portugal, the Leopards would finish level on points with Cristiano Ronaldo’s side. Since the DR Congo and Portugal drew in their head-to-head opener, overall goal difference would serve as the ultimate tiebreaker to determine who secures the automatic qualification spot.

Uzbekistan won’t be an easy out for the Leopards

Group K remains mathematically alive for every single nation. Although Uzbekistan currently sits at the bottom of the pile with zero points, a win over the DR Congo in the finale would push the Asian side to three points, keeping their dreams alive of sneakily advancing as one of the best third-placed teams in this expanded tournament format.

Through two matches, the DR Congo will enter the finale as the heavy favorite after putting on resilient, eye-catching performances against both Portugal and Colombia. However, Uzbekistan will not let their final World Cup lifeline slip away easily and will undoubtedly offer fierce resistance.

The Group L standings have shifted dramatically after England’s scoreless draw with Ghana. Now, Croatia faces a crucial duel against Panama, whose live FIFA ranking has also been adjusted ahead of the match.

Following a tough 4-2 defeat against England in their opener, the Vatreni have slid down to 15th in the world standings. This represents a drop of four places for the Europeans, who originally entered the 2026 World Cup in 11th position.

Croatia needs to defeat Panama

Croatia currently sits with zero points after that challenging initial match against England. The Canaleros find themselves in the exact same position following a narrow 1-0 loss to Ghana in its tournament debut.

For this reason, there is an immense amount at stake in this clash. Following Ghana’s draw with England, it has become absolutely vital for both Croatia and Panama to secure a victory to keep their knockout-stage dreams alive.

Croatia enters the match as the clear favorite to walk away with the three points. Nevertheless, Panama will look to provide a fierce challenge, especially after the Concacaf squad showed serious grit and nearly walked away with a result against Ghana in its opening fixture.

Panama faced Ghana in its 2026 World Cup debut. In a match where Ghana’s goalkeeper had to be subbed off, it was ultimately the African squad that emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 scoreline.

Following this opening defeat, FIFA updated Panama’s global ranking. The Central Americans now hold the 40th position in the world, dropping six spots from their original tournament placement.

Croatia also dropped places after its debut

Croatia, officially designated by the FIFA country code HRV, also slid down the live rankings. Luka Modric’s squad was originally positioned in 11th place, but its tournament debut was far from ideal.

Croatia suffered a 4-2 defeat against England—who firmly maintained its 4th position in the rankings—in a match that proved costly for the Vatreni. Now, the 2018 World Cup runners-up desperately need a victory against Panama to get back on track.

If Croatia defeats Panama, in a game to be played at an outstanding stadium, it will climb to three points. The Kockasti would still control their own destiny, setting up a vital showdown against Ghana in the group stage finale.

Panama can’t afford a defeat

A second consecutive defeat for Panama would be disastrous. While Los Canaleros would not be mathematically eliminated just yet, they would face the monumental task of needing a win against heavyweights England, alongside a complex chain of outside results, to advance to the Round of 32.

Unfortunately for Panama, its history against England on the world stage offers little comfort. The two squads previously met at Russia 2018, where the Three Lions crushed the Central Americans 6-1 in the group stage.

After DR Congo spoiled Ronaldo’s 2026 World Cup debut by holding Portugal to a frustrating draw, the Al Nassr striker responded in trademark fashion with a two-goal masterclass against Uzbekistan. “We are here,” the captain wrote on X, sharing two pictures—one celebrating his clinical performance and another alongside his teammates.

While rumors had circulated that the opening-match setback had sparked internal tension within the Portuguese camp, with Cristiano Ronaldo denying these sugestions, used his platform to shut down the noise. By showcasing a strong message of unity, the veteran leader made it clear that the squad remains completely focused and together as they push deeper into the World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo had an impressive game

In the match against DR Congo, Cristiano Ronaldo finished with a disappointing 6.1 match rating. His anonymous performance prompted heavy criticism, even drawing comments from DR Congo’s Ngal’ayel Mukau, who claimed that Ronaldo was simply not the same player anymore.

However, his latest performance against Uzbekistan was significantly better. Ronaldo fired home a vintage brace, breaking a major Lionel Messi World Cup record in the process and walking away with an impressive 8.5 rating according to SofaScore.

Following its commanding victory over Uzbekistan, Portugal’s path to the Round of 32 looks much brighter. Nevertheless, its final group match against Colombia could prove to be the ultimate decider, heavily depending on how the Cafeteros perform in their Tuesday clash against DR Congo.

When is Portugal facing Colombia?

Portugal returns to action on Saturday, June 27, for its final Matchday 3 fixture in Group K. The showdown against Colombia promises to be an intense battle, with the South American powerhouse also eager to secure a favorable position at the top of the table.

Miami Stadium will host the high-stakes encounter between Portugal and Colombia on June 27 at 7:30 PM (ET). If Colombia manages to defeat DR Congo, Portugal will need a victory against James Rodríguez’s side to officially lock down the group leadership.

Toronto Stadium in Toronto, Canada, will host this highly anticipated encounter between Germany and Ivory Coast, with predicted lineups, match officials, and kits already finalized.

Germany enters the clash as the clear favorite, while an Ivory Coast side comes in with a surging momentum after their FIFA ranking was boosted by a surprising upset over Ecuador in their 2026 World Cup debut.

Capacity and weather expected for Germany vs. Ivory Coast

Toronto Stadium features a capacity of approximately 44,315 seats for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A sellout crowd is expected for this fixture, as the German powerhouse remains one of the most attractive teams in the tournament.

The weather for this match is projected to be absolutely spectacular for soccer, with temperatures hovering around 71°F (22°C) and no indication of rain during the 90 minutes.

How many games Will Toronto Stadium Host in the World Cup?

FIFA designated that Toronto Stadium (traditionally known as BMO Field) would host six matches during this World Cup. The duel between Germany and Ivory Coast will mark the third fixture hosted at the venue.

• June 12: Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina (Group Stage)
• June 17: Ghana vs. Panama (Group Stage)
• June 20: Germany vs. Ivory Coast (Group Stage)
• June 23: Panama vs. Croatia (Group Stage)
• June 26: Senegal vs. Iraq (Group Stage)
• July 2: Match 83 – Group K runners-up vs. Group L runners-up

The Barcelona star winger was unable to finish the first half after suffering an apparent muscular injury. Crucially, the forward did not require a stretcher to leave the pitch, walking off under his own power to the sidelines—offering a subtle glimmer of hope for the Brazilian camp.

Teenage forward Rayan was called upon to replace Raphinha in the 39th minute, with manager Carlo Ancelotti wasting no time and taking absolutely no chances with his winger’s fitness. Brazil is expected to provide an official medical update following the conclusion of the match.

Raphinha was struggling before being subbed off

Before Raphinha’s injury forced him off, La Canarinha was already cruising with a 2-0 lead over Haiti, whose FIFA ranking was updated for the game against Brazil. However, the Barcelona winger was far from the catalyst behind that early advantage.

SofaScore handed Raphinha a modest 6.3 rating for his brief time on the pitch. His underlying stats highlighted a frustrating outing: he completed 10 passes (five of them backward), misplaced three, and failed to complete any of his three dribble attempts. He also struggled with his delivery, successfully connecting on just one of his five crosses.

Shortly after he left the pitch, Brazil extended their cushion to 3-0 thanks to a brilliant finish from Vinicius Jr. Raphinha is now expected to undergo further medical examinations to determine the exact severity of his muscular injury.

With Christian Pulisic sidelined due to an injury suffered in their opener against Paraguay, the United States still managed to dictate the tempo against Australia, securing the definitive result USA needed to comfortably advance to the Round of 32.

The USMNT is in the Round of 32

Following Mexico’s early clinching of the top spot in Group A on Thursday, the USMNT followed suit just a day later. With a perfect six points, Mauricio Pochettino’s side has mathematically locked up the group leadership and guaranteed a favorable path into the knockout stage.

The USMNT has secured two victories in its first two games of the 2026 World Cup. Australia remains stuck on three points and could still theoretically tie the Stars and Stripes at six points; however, FIFA’s head-to-head tie-breaker rules guarantee the co-hosts the ultimate advantage even if the USA falls in its final group match.

No Pulisic, no problem

Pulisic remained on the bench for the match against the Socceroos, as Mauricio Pochettino wisely chose not to risk his star player’s long-term tournament availability. Fortunately for the USMNT, they didn’t need Captain America on the pitch to successfully overcome this physical test.

An own goal from Australian defender Cameron Burgess and a sharp finish from Alex Freeman provided the damage for the United States, proving that Pochettino has plenty of attacking weapons at his disposal. Pulisic, who shined against Paraguay in the first match, remains hopeful to be fully fit for the final group stage fixture against Turkiye.

Brazil faces Haiti—the lowest-ranked CONCACAF team in the 2026 tournament—in a must-win game for Canarinha. After a frustrating 1-1 draw against Morocco in their opening match, the five-time World Cup champions desperately need to make a statement against the Grenadiers.

Unfortunately for A Seleção, Neymar remains unavailable for this fixture. Having already missed the opening match against Morocco, his recovery timeline continues to prolong his absence from the Brazilian national team.

Brazil’s confirmed lineup to face Haiti

Brazil is dealing with several high-profile absences for this tournament. One of the most notable is veteran center-back Thiago Silva, who missed out on the final 26-man roster. Furthermore, Real Madrid star defender Eder Militao was completely ruled out of the World Cup due to a recent injury.

Brazil’s confirmed lineup vs. Haiti: Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Douglas Santos; Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes, Lucas Paqueta; Raphinha, Vinicius Jr., Matheus Cunha.

Haiti’s confirmed lineup vs. Brazil

Haiti boasts several talented foreign-born players in their 2026 World Cup squad, a formula that allowed the Concacaf nation to give Scotland serious problems in its tournament opener. Now, the Grenadiers will look to pull off another gritty performance against Brazil, even though Canarinha enters the match as the overwhelming favorite.

Haiti’s confirmed starting XI to face Brazil: Johnny Placide; Carlens Arcus, Ricardo Ade, Hannes Delcroix, Martin Experience,Jean-Kevin Duverne; Jean-Ricner Bellegarde, Danley Jean Jacques; Ruben Providence, Frantzdy Pierrot, Josue Casimir.

After a brilliant hat-trick against Algeria, Lionel Messi tied Miroslav Klose as the all-time top scorer in World Cup history. Nevertheless, that masterful performance didn’t impress Alexander Schlager too much, as the Austrian goalkeeper remains more of a fan of Cristiano Ronaldo.

“I am more of a Cristiano Ronaldo guy, I think I’ve already said it before,” the Austrian goalkeeper told ESPN Argentina. “But he [Messi] is a player that has performed at a peak level for so much time. It would be nonsense to say the contrary. He has an amazing presence and his team notices it. What he generates on the field and the vibe he transmits—that’s why I am excited to face him and try to nullify him.“

Lionel Messi’s 2026 World Cup is special

After scoring his hat-trick against Algeria, an emotional Lionel Messi broke down in tears before explaining his current situation. His father, Jorge Messi, is currently dealing with a serious health issue, and the family has already released an official statement regarding the matter.

While Messi has always performed at a peak level, this difficult personal situation seems to have propelled him to give even more on the pitch than he normally provides. He can become the sole all-time top scorer in World Cup history with just a single goal against Austria, cementing his legendary legacy even further.

Some of the greatest soccer players ever have already shown their immense respect for the Argentine captain, such as Ronaldo Nazario, who recently explained why Lionel Messi deserves to hold the all-time World Cup scoring record. Will he achieve it against Austria?

Kylian Mbappe is near the record

Prior to Messi’s spectacular hat-trick, Kylian Mbappe scored a brilliant brace to position himself at 14 career World Cup goals. While Messi surpassed him later that same day, it is clear that this high-stakes historical race will remain fiercely alive throughout the entire 2026 World Cup.

On June 22, both France and Argentina jump back into action, but Les Bleus will take the pitch first against Iraq. Mbappe has a genuine opportunity to tie or even surpass Messi when facing an Asian nation that allowed four goals (including two by Erling Haaland) in its opening match.

With Memo Ochoa out of the starting XI against South Korea, Mexico secured a 1-0 win against the Asian squad. Now, El Tricolor returns to a renovated Mexico City Stadium for a key game.

Mexico will play against Czechia on June 24 at 9:00 PM (ET). It will be the second game for El Tricolor at Mexico City Stadium, having already secured the top of the group thanks to Luis Romo’s goal following a major mistake by South Korea’s goalkeeper.

Why has Mexico secured the Group A leadership?

The Group A standings after Mexico’s win over South Korea are set. El Tri has six points and tops the group, securing leadership no matter what happens against Czechia.

South Korea has three points, and a potential win against South Africa would tie Mexico in points if El Tricolor loses to Czechia. Nevertheless, the new tie-breaker rules would favor the co-hosts despite a potential tie in points.

Because Mexico defeated South Korea, the co-hosts are favored in the tie-breaker rules, as head-to-head matches are now the primary metric used to define who finishes on top. However, Mexico may not even need to rely on it if it gets a positive result against Czechia in the final game.

Who will Mexico face in the Round of 32?

As Group A leaders, Mexico is set to face a third-placed team from Group C, E, F, H, or I at Mexico City Stadium in the Round of 32. If El Tri wins in that phase, it would return to the capital for the Round of 16.

In the 50th minute, Mexico launched a dangerous attack down the left flank through Julian Quinones—one of El Tri’s key foreign-born weapons—who whipped a cross toward Raul Jimenez in the penalty box.

Jimenez didn’t get the cleanest connection on the ball, but South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu failed to secure it in the air. The shot-stopper spilled the ball directly into the six-yard box, leaving an absolute gift for Luis Romo to tap into an empty net.

The only way the breakthrough was coming

Throughout the opening 45 minutes, Mexico completely dominated possession. However, they sorely lacked a clinical edge in the final third, registering just a single shot on target and leaving a tense crowd at Guadalajara Stadium growing visibly anxious.

South Korea looked much sharper after the cooling break, new in the 2026 World Cup, but they couldn’t capitalize on their momentum either. In a match where clear-cut chances were hard to come by, a costly handling error felt like the only way this stubborn deadlock was ever going to be broken.

Tactical control on home soil

Feeding off a raucous home-field advantage, Mexico masterfully dictated the game’s tempo. Javier Aguirre’s side even intelligently conceded possession to the Asian team at various intervals to catch their breath and reset. The defensive blueprint worked to perfection, completely nullifying South Korea’s talismanic superstar, Son Heung-min, and keeping El Tri firmly in the driver’s seat.

Mexico entered the 2026 World Cup ranked 11th globally. Javier Aguirre’s squad is the highest-ranked CONCACAF team in the tournament, with the closest three regional rivals being the United States (17th), Canada (30th), and Panama (34th in the FIFA rankings).

The other two CONCACAF nations in the tournament are Curacao (82nd) and Haiti, who entered as the lowest-ranked team from the confederation. Mexico fully aims to validate its high ranking by orchestrating a deep, historic run on home soil.

Mexico boasts a solid roster boosted by foreign-born stars

Mexico has consistently welcomed naturalized talents into the fold, and their 2026 World Cup roster is clear proof. The squad features five players who were born outside of Mexico but are fully committed to defending the green jersey at all costs.

Julian Quinones and Alvaro Fidalgo stand out as the premier foreign-born figures in the midfield and attack, with Quinones already making headlines by scoring the opening goal of the 2026 World Cup against South Africa. However, the domestic talent remains equally formidable.

Key homegrown stars driving the team forward include Raul Jimenez, Edson Alvarez, and Cesar Montes (out vs South Korea). To add to the excitement, Mexico also boasts the absolute youngest player in the entire 2026 World Cup tournament: 17-year-old sensation Gilberto Mora.

Why is Mexico so highly ranked by FIFA?

Mexico’s strong position in the global standings is a direct result of its recent silverware dominance within the region, having captured both the CONCACAF Gold Cup and the CONCACAF Nations League titles in 2025.

While 11th in the world is impressive, it is still a bit shy of their best-ever historical placement, when El Tri climbed all the way to 4th overall. On the flip side, the nation’s lowest valley came in July 2015, when a string of poor international performances saw them plummet to 40th place.

Even without Alphonso Davies in the starting XI against Qatar, Canada was able to secure a massive 6-0 win against the Asian squad. With this victory, the Canadiens managed tie Switzerland in points, who defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier on Thursday.

Group B is now wide open, as Canada prepares to face Switzerland next on June 24 at 3:00 PM (ET). This highly anticipated fixture will determine group supremacy in a high-stakes match at BC Place in Vancouver, where the Canadiens will surely give everything to win and for Ismael Kone, who suffered a scary injury against Qatar.

Canada aims for top spot in Group B

Following vital wins for both Switzerland and Canada, both nations now sit level on four points. While neither has mathematically locked in a spot in the Round of 32 just yet, both are on the absolute cusp of qualification.

If Canada defeats Switzerland, it will comfortably secure the top spot in the group with seven points. Alternatively, a draw would also keep the Canadiens ahead of the Swiss on goal difference, keeping it in first place.

In this latter scenario, the host nation would finish with five points and book a place in the Round of 32 as group winners. Should it top the group, Canada would remain at BC Place in Vancouver to face a third-placed team advancing from Group E, F, G, I, or J. Qatar aren’t out yet, but their odds are low.

Why group leadership is vital for Canada

Securing a victory or a draw against Switzerland does more than just ensure passage; it hands the North Americans massive leverage heading into the high-pressure knockout stage.

As group winner, Canada would play its Round of 32 match in front of a passionate home crowd at BC Place. Furthermore, should the Canadiens win that opening knockout clash, they would also get to stay in Vancouver for their Round of 16 fixture, maintaining a crucial home-field advantage at a defining moment in the tournament.

Head coach Javier Aguirre made the tactical decision to carry four natural strikers in his 2026 World Cup roster. While Santiago Gimenez made the final 26-man cut, he enters the tournament with very low chances of seeing extended minutes on the pitch.

With Raul Jimenez locked in as the undisputed starter, Gimenez is currently regarded as the third or fourth option on the depth chart. Having endured a difficult club season with AC Milan, his place on the bench tonight, in a game in which Mexico could secure a ticket for the Round of 32, is a purely tactical choice by Aguirre.

Santiago Gimenez may see limited minutes in the World Cup

Gimenez plagued by a persistent ankle injury throughout the entire 2025/26 season. This health issue sidelined him for a significant portion of the campaign, limiting him to just 1,037 minutes of action with AC Milan, where he registered a lone goal and three assists.

Aguirre ultimately chose to include Gimenez in the World Cup squad due to his invaluable European experience. However, Guillermo Martinez (Pumas UNAM) and Armando Gonzalez (Chivas) currently appear to be ahead of him in the manager’s pecking order.

Martinez provides a physical, big-bodied target-man presence whose aerial dominance is heavily felt by opposing defenses. On the other hand, Gonzalez offers far more mobility than both Jimenez and Martinez, coming off an astonishing breakout year with Chivas in which he racked up 24 goals.

Will Santiago Gimenez stay with AC Milan?

Santiago Gimenez originally signed with AC Milan as a highly touted rising star expected to become the club’s next elite striker. Unfortunately, recurrent injuries have prevented him from showcasing his true capabilities on the Serie A stage as much as he would have liked.

With Ruben Amorim recently hired as the Rossoneri’s new manager, Gimenez’s future in Italy hangs in the balance. It remains highly uncertain whether Amorim will choose to keep the Mexican forward in his plans or if he will ask the front office to send him out on loan to another European club where he can secure guaranteed first-team minutes.

The 1-1 draw between South Africa and Czechia on Thursday has shaken up the scenarios in Group A. This result directly impacts Mexico, as the co-hosts look to capitalize and secure their ticket to the Round of 32 today.

If Mexico defeat South Korea, despite the strong support of Mexican fans for the Asians, they will automatically punch their ticket to the next phase. El Tricolor would reach six points and, by virtue of defeating its closest group rival, would mathematically lock up the top spot in Group A. However, a tie or loss against South Korea would change things for Mexico.

Why would Mexico secure the Group A leadership with a win?

With a victory over South Korea, Mexico would sit comfortably at six points. In the final round of group fixtures, the Asian side will face South Africa, while the co-hosts return to Mexico City Stadium to take on Czechia.

Even if Mexico were to lose to Czechia in that final match while South Korea defeat South Africa, both teams would finish tied at six points. In this situation, the head-to-head result would give Mexico the ultimate advantage for group leadership.

According to the updated tournament regulations set by FIFA for the 2026 World Cup, if teams finish level on points, the very first tie-breaker is now head-to-head points rather than overall goal difference. Under this hypothetical scenario, a victory over South Korea tonight guarantees Mexico the top seed.

A draw or loss doesn’t eliminate Mexico

If Mexico fail to defeat South Korea, their qualification hopes will still be very much alive. However, Javier Aguirre’s squad would face a nerve-wracking, high-stakes final group match against Czechia.

Incredibly, even if Mexico were to lose both of their remaining matches against South Korea and Czechia, they could still theoretically advance as one of the eight best third-placed teams in the competition. However, taking that perilous route would leave them entirely reliant on complex mathematics and favorable outcomes from other groups.