World Cup: a guide to the round of 16
The tournament kicks off with Canada v South Africa on 28 June and concludes with Colombia v Ghana on 4 July. Brazil v Japan and the Netherlands v Morocco are the most exciting fixtures. Here’s where and when the 16 matches will be played
The 2026 FIFA World Cup introduces a completely revamped knockout stage: for the first time in history, the tournament will begin with the round of 16, with 32 of the 48 teams having qualified. Following a group stage that was not without its surprises – characterised by multiple goals from many of the expected stars, from Messi to Cristiano Ronaldo, from Mbappé to Haaland – with Mexico and the host nation, the USA, dominating, and France and Argentina progressing with a perfect record, the tournament is now entering its most exciting phase. The round of 32 matches will be played between 28 June and 3 July 2026 (4 July in Italia).
South Africa v Canada
The tournament kicks off on 28 June with South Africa v Canada in Los Angeles, at SoFi Stadium (7.00 pm Italian time). It’s a clash between two runners-up: South Africa, who secured a historic qualification with 4 points in Group A, and Canada, who finished second in Group B behind Switzerland.
The Canadians have shone particularly in attack (scoring 8 goals in the group stage), driven by a prolific forward line, whilst South Africa have relied mainly on organisation and defensive solidity.
Brazil–Japan
On 29 June, the match between Brazil and Japan will take place at NRG Stadium in Houston (7.00 pm Italian time). The Seleção have produced some brilliant football (7 goals scored, just 1 conceded), whilst Japan have stood out for their balance and solidity (5 points, unbeaten), finishing second in their group behind the Netherlands.
Germany–Paraguay
Germany, top of Group E with 7 points and 10 goals scored, face one of the best third-placed teams, Paraguay, in Boston (Gillette Stadium) on 29 June (10.30 pm Italian time). The Germans have boasted one of the best attacks in the group stage (albeit with the odd defensive lapse), driven by consistent attacking play and dominating even against direct rivals such as Côte d’Ivoire.
Netherlands v Morocco
A highly anticipated match in Monterrey, at the Estadio BBVA, on 30 June (3.00 Italian time). The Netherlands, top of Group F with 7 points and 10 goals scored, face Morocco, who are second in Group C, level on points with Brazil. The Europeans have shown great attacking quality, whilst the North Africans have proved to be a compact and dangerous side thanks to their tactical organisation.
