Exciting Reasons to Watch Every Match of the Top 32 of the 2026 World Cup
June 30, 2026 · Global
This article examines the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup, highlighting key matches and the excitement surrounding the tournament.
It's time to welcome the knockout round of the 2026 World Cup! After 72 matches, now there are only 32 teams that will fight to win the world title. Some big names, interesting stories and surprising results have made this tournament so exciting. Here are some reasons why you should watch every game in the round of 32 starting on the evening of Sunday, June 28.
Sunday, June 28
South Africa vs Canada (20:00 BST)
These two countries are entering the knockout rounds for the first time, making this a very interesting match. Even though Canada is playing overseas, many fans are expected to be in attendance in Los Angeles.
Monday, June 29
Brazil vs Japan (18:00 BST)
This match is a meeting between a star team and a team trying to prove themselves. Japan beat Brazil 3-2 last year and will be looking to avenge the 4-1 defeat they suffered in the group stages of the 2006 World Cup.
Germany vs Paraguay (21:30 BST)
Paraguay has the ambition to take revenge after losing 0-1 to Germany in the last 16 of the 2002 World Cup, and could face France in the next round.
Tuesday, June 30
Netherlands vs Morocco (02:00 BST)
This match has the potential to be the most exciting yet. The Netherlands, predicted to be the winner of the tournament, will play Morocco, who reached the semifinals four years ago.
Ivory Coast vs Norway (18:00 BST)
This duel pits Erling Haaland's unstoppable power against an Ivory Coast defense that has not conceded a goal in ten qualifiers.
France vs Sweden (22:00 BST)
This interesting matchup will pit Sweden's Viktor Gyokeres against his Arsenal teammate, William Lintasa.
Wednesday, July 1
Mexico vs Ecuador (02:00 BST)
The match at Azteca Stadium is always an interesting spectacle. Also, this could provide an opportunity to analyze England's potential opponents in the round of 16.
England vs DR Congo (17:00 BST)
This match was the only friendly for England in this tournament.
Belgium vs Senegal (21:00 BST)
Both teams performed impressively in the group phase. Belgium is trying to prove that they still have potential, while Senegal is struggling to prove themselves despite being the third-worst ranked team.
Thursday, July 2
USA vs Bosnia-Herzegovina (01:00 BST)
Even though it wasn't the 4th of July, hosts USA came in high spirits despite narrowly losing to Türkiye.
Spain vs Austria (20:00 BST)
This match will be a clash between different playing styles, with a fit-again Lamine Yamal facing a more direct Austrian side.
Friday, July 3
Portugal vs Croatia (00:00 BST)
It might be a farewell for Luka Modric and Cristiano Ronaldo from the World Cup.
Switzerland vs Algeria (04:00 BST)
Switzerland are looking for a first knockout win in eight attempts against Algeria.
Australia vs Egypt (19:00 BST)
This match is interesting because Mohamed Salah is trying to catch the goalscoring record.
Argentina vs Kap Verde (23:00 BST)
This match will bring Lionel Messi together with veteran goalkeeper Kap Verde, Vozinha, who has become a national icon.
Saturday, July 4
Colombia vs Ghana (02:30 BST)
This game in Kansas City is sure to be a colorful and passionate spectacle for both fans.
So, prepare yourself to witness every exciting moment from the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup!