Here’s How The Round Of 32 In The FIFA World Cup Stacks Up
Key takeaways
- Sports Money Here’s How The Round Of 32 In The FIFA World Cup Stacks Up By Michael Lewis,
- Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights.
- (Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Getty Images)Getty ImagesMany soccer aficionados claim that the real World Cup doesn't really start until the knockout round.
Sports Money Here’s How The Round Of 32 In The FIFA World Cup Stacks Up By Michael Lewis,
Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. U.S. men's national team and soccer Follow Author Jun 28, 2026, 08:14pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Summary The World Cup's expanded Round of 32 has begun, signaling the true start of the knockout stage where upsets are possible. Canada secured an early extra-time win. Upcoming fixtures feature major contenders: Brazil faces Japan, Germany plays Paraguay, and the Netherlands takes on Morocco in a potentially thrilling match. France, boasting a potent offense, meets Sweden, while Norway's Erling Haaland is poised to shine against Ivory Coast. Co-hosts Mexico and USA also compete. England, led by Harry Kane, faces DR Congo. Spain, Portugal, and Switzerland are also in action. Defending champions Argentina, spearheaded by Lionel Messi, are strong favorites against Cape Verde, with Egypt and Colombia completing the lineup.
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JUNE 16: Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match between Argentina and Algeria at Kansas City Stadium on June 16, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Getty Images)Getty ImagesMany soccer aficionados claim that the real World Cup doesn't really start until the knockout round.