The knockout phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been officially set following the conclusion of the group stage, with the Round of 32 producing several high-profile clashes and a historic showing from African teams.
One of the biggest stories of the tournament so far is Africa’s impressive representation in the knockout rounds, with nine of the ten nations that represented the continent progressing to the next stage.
Only Tunisia failed to qualify, while Ghana, Senegal, Morocco, Egypt, Algeria, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, Cape Verde and DR Congo all secured places in the Round of 32.
Action in the knockout stage begins on Sunday, June 28, with South Africa opening Africa’s campaign against Canada.
On Monday, June 29, five-time champions Brazil will take on Japan, Germany face Paraguay, while the Netherlands clash with Morocco in one of the day’s standout fixtures.
Tuesday, June 30, promises another exciting lineup as Côte d’Ivoire battle Norway, France meet Sweden, and Mexico take on Ecuador.
England will continue their campaign on Wednesday, July 1, against DR Congo, while Belgium face Senegal in a highly anticipated encounter. Hosts United States will also meet Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Thursday’s fixtures will see European champions Spain square off against Austria, Portugal battle Croatia, and Switzerland take on Algeria.
The Round of 32 concludes on Friday, July 3, with Australia facing Egypt, defending champions Argentina taking on tournament surprise package Cape Verde, and Colombia meeting Ghana.
Africa’s strong presence in the knockout stage has become one of the defining narratives of the tournament, highlighting the continent’s growing influence on the world football stage.
With the group stage completed, attention now shifts to the knockout rounds where every match becomes a battle for survival and a place in World Cup history.
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