World Cup 26 Previews

Australia v Egypt

Dallas Stadium will play host to Australia against Egypt, who are both searching for their first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout win in this last 32 clash.

Match News and Current Form
A drab 0-0 draw against Paraguay on matchday three was enough for Australia to reach the knockout phase as Group D runners-up (W1, D1, L1). The Socceroos will now play their third-ever World Cup knockout game, having been beaten in their two previous such appearances against the eventual champions in 2006 and 2022. Australia must improve offensively to break that winning duck though, having scored just two goals at this World Cup - their joint-lowest group-stage tally at the tournament since the 1974 edition. They have therefore unsurprisingly failed to find the net in their last two matches, but with only two goals conceded, Tony Popovic's men boasted one of the better defensive units in the group phase.

Egypt’s place in the last 32 was confirmed before kick-off on matchday three against Iran, but they then failed to clinch top spot in Group G, only drawing 1-1 despite taking a fifth-minute lead. This is the first time that the Pharaohs have advanced to the knockout phase after playing in a World Cup group stage, with their unbeaten run (W1, D2) their longest in the tournament’s history. Egypt netted five goals in their group, as many as they had scored in seven previous games at the finals. Turning that attacking improvement into wins has proved to be somewhat challenging though, with Hossam Hassan’s men having endured indifferent recent form (W3, D3, L3) leading into this encounter.

Head-to-Head History
These sides have one win each from two H2Hs, while Australia are unbeaten in their two previous World Cup matches against African opposition (W1, D1).

Hot Stats and Streaks
Only two of Australia’s last nine matches saw both teams score.

Australia kept a clean sheet in four of their last six World Cup games.

Egypt’s last five World Cup matches saw both teams score.

Five of Egypt’s last seven opening goals during normal time came inside 20 minutes.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Harry Souttar’s last four international goals have all come in wins, but the last of those was in January 2024. Trézéguet has registered two goal contributions at this World Cup (G1, A1), with his header serving as the last goal of the game in Egypt’s victory over New Zealand.

Australian duo Jacob Italiano and Mathew Leckie have been ruled out of the tournament. Egypt captain Mohamed Salah is a doubt, while Mohamed Abdelmonem and Ahmed Fatouh are also injury concerns. Mohanad Lasheen is serving a one-match suspension.

Betting Analysis
Australia have shown their defensive strengths in this tournament and will fancy a draw during regular time here.

Author: Sridhar Bhamidi

Argentina v Cape Verde

Florida will host a last 32 clash involving two undefeated sides from the group stages when defending champions Argentina face history-making underdogs Cape Verde.

Match News and Current Form
Argentina have been flawless in defence of their World Cup crown, as a 3-1 win over Jordan capped off a perfect group stage campaign (W3), with La Selección conceding just their second goal in what is now a ten-game winning streak. Lionel Scaloni’s men became just the third reigning champions to reach the World Cup knockout stage this century, and have given themselves every chance of going back-to-back given that none of the top-ten ranked sides await them until at least the semi-final. They’ll have to be on guard against complacency though, as seven of their last 13 World Cup knockout ties went to extra-time, while no team have seen more games go to extra-time than Argentina’s 11 in World Cup history.

Cape Verde are arguably the story of the tournament thus far, as going undefeated to progress from a group involving Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia was something few predicted (D3). They’re the first nation to progress from their World Cup group without a victory since Chile in 1998, while also becoming the first debuting nation to reach the knockout stages since Slovakia in 2010, and the first African side since Ghana in 2006. The Blue Sharks are the lowest-ranked side to reach the World Cup knockout stages in their debut appearance, and while they’re massive outsiders here, keeping a clean sheet against fellow heavyweights Spain on matchday one of the group stage must be a source of inspiration.

Head-to-Head History
This will be the first-ever meeting between these countries, but Argentina have won each of their last seven World Cup games against African opposition.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Argentina’s last 12 matches saw the half-time result replicated at full-time.

Five of Argentina’s last seven games produced over 2.5 goals.

Cape Verde haven't conceded a second-half goal in any of their last six games.

Just one of Cape Verde’s last five matches saw both teams score.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Argentina’s Lautaro Martínez scored his first-ever World Cup goal in his ninth such appearance against Jordan on matchday three, and will be on the hunt again early with his last three international strikes coming before half-time. Cape Verde’s Dailon Livramento has netted the match opener in three of his four goalscoring appearances for his nation, though the only exception came in a 4-2 defeat to Argentina’s CONMEBOL rivals Chile in March.

The Argentines seem to be at full strength, while Cape Verde may be without Telmo Arcanjo after he missed their last game.

Betting Analysis
Cape Verde have shown resilience, but the defending champions have been rampant, making a bet on Argentina to score 3+ goals an enticing option.

Author: Peter Stavrinou

Colombia v Ghana

Kansas City will host a reunion of sorts when Ghana manager Carlos Queiroz faces former employers Colombia as the South Americans look to reach the last 16 for a third successive World Cup finals appearance.

Match News and Current Form
Colombia extended their unbeaten run to eight competitive internationals (W4, D4) when they drew 0-0 with Portugal to win Group K. That was another excellent World Cup defensive performance for Los Cafeteros, who conceded just one goal during the group phase to make it four clean sheets across their last six World Cup matches. They may need some time to get going at the other end of the pitch though, with all four group stage goals coming on after the 40th minute. Nonetheless, coach Nestor Lorenzo and his squad should be confident of confirming their status as warm favourites here as Colombia have won their last four games against African sides at the World Cup, including beating a stubborn DR Congo in this year’s group stage.

Ghana have the opportunity to progress to the last 16 of the World Cup for the first time since 2010 after they reached this stage as one of the eight best third-placed qualifiers despite losing 2-1 on matchday three to Croatia. That result ended a run of five consecutive clean sheets in competitive encounters for the Black Stars (W4, D1), and they have needed their defending to be sound throughout, having averaged just 36% possession during this year’s World Cup group phase - the second-lowest such figure among teams that progressed to the last 32 behind Paraguay. Unless they can end a trend of ten consecutive internationals with no more than one goal to their name, their defensive unit will again have to stand tall and be resolute.

Head-to-Head History
These two sides have never met. Colombia have won four of their five all-time World Cup matches against African countries, whilst Ghana have lost all three of their World Cup games against South American nations.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Eight of Colombia’s last ten wins were by a 2+ goal margin.

Six of Colombia’s last seven matches saw the half-time result replicated at full-time.

Ghana’s last ten goals were all scored after half-time.

Five of Ghana’s last six matches were drawn or decided by a one-goal margin.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Juanfer Quintero has registered a goal contribution in each of Colombia’s last three World Cup victories over African opposition (G1, A2), including an assist in this year’s group phase against DR Congo. Derrick Luckassen equalised for Ghana against Croatia on Saturday - his third successive winless scoring appearance for club or country (D1, L2).

Colombia do not seem to have any fresh absentees, while Ghana star Antoine Semenyo was in some discomfort against Croatia but could still feature here.

Betting Analysis
Given Colombia’s strong group phase and Ghana’s generally low-scoring games recently, we would not be surprised to see Colombia win with a clean sheet.

Author: Alex Bowmer

Last 16 Play -Offs

 Best of luck all.

Canada v Morocco

Co-hosts Canada will look to claim a famous scalp as they take on Morocco in Houston aiming to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the very first time.

Match News and Current Form
After largely dominating their last 32 tie against South Africa, Canada’s patience was eventually rewarded with a 92nd-minute winner in their first-ever World Cup knockout game. Emotive head coach Jesse Marsch sees this tie as a “free hit” for his team, who are bidding to become the first side since 2002 to win each of their first two knockout round ties in the competition. Winning two of their last three games in Houston (D1) should offer the Canadians plenty of hope, although they’ve lost each of their four tournament matches against sides ranked inside FIFA’s top 25, with this their toughest test to date in the 2026 edition.

Morocco needed late drama of their own to book their place in the last 16, netting a 91st-minute equaliser against the Netherlands before eventually progressing 3-2 on penalties. The Atlas Lions therefore retain hope of matching their heroic run to the semi-finals in 2022 and are now unbeaten in nine games (W6, D3) since the final of the Africa Cup of Nations. Morocco should carry plenty of confidence into this tie given that they’ve now progressed from six of their last eight knockout ties at major tournaments, while they’ve also won each of their previous two World Cup matches against CONCACAF nations, including victory over Canada during the 2022 group stage!

Head-to-Head History
Canada have only faced two sides more often than Morocco without ever winning (D1, L3).

Hot Stats and Streaks
Canada have recorded 7+ shots on target in three of their four games at this World Cup.

Canada have netted multiple goals in just one of their last seven World Cup matches.

Morocco have conceded just two of the eight penalties they’ve faced in World Cup penalty shootouts.

Just one of Morocco’s six World Cup matches beyond the group stage witnessed over 2.5 goals.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Stephen Eustáquio was the Canadian matchwinner against South Africa, with his last three international goals coming beyond the 65th minute. Achraf Hakimi could become the first African player to make 15 World Cup appearances here - he has five goal contributions across his last seven internationals (G1, A4).

Apart from Ismaël Koné’s absence, Canada are at full strength and Alphonso Davies could start for the first time here. Defender Chadi Riad could be missing for Morocco after limping off in their last match.

Betting Analysis
With Morocco in fantastic attacking form and possessing more quality than Canada, backing Morocco to qualify and both teams to score could prove sensible.

Author: Nathan Evans

Paraguay v France

After becoming the first team to ever beat Germany on penalties in a World Cup fixture, a World Cup quarter-final beckons for Paraguay if they can knock out tournament favourites France in Philadelphia.

Match News and Current Form
Paraguay produced one of the shock results at the last 32 stage, dumping out the Germans on penalties after holding them to a 1-1 draw in regulation time. La Albirroja are now one win away from equalling their best-ever World Cup run of 2010 when they reached the quarter-finals, something which looked highly unlikely when they lost their opening game of this tournament 4-1. Gustavo Alfaro’s side have rallied since, conceding only once across three unbeaten matches (W2, D1), and their defence will need to be at its best once more here, not only to keep out one of the world’s most potent frontlines, but due to their record of scoring just once in six historical World Cup knockout games.

France have had no such issues scoring goals of late, as their 3-0 victory over Sweden in the last 32 served as a fifth successive match in which they’d scored at least three times. Such a record plays into why Les Bleus are much fancied to go all the way in this tournament, and a strong record at this stage underlines their heavy favouritism here, as France are unbeaten across their last seven World Cup fixtures in the last 16. Losing just two of their last 23 World Cup games (W18, D3) is another phenomenal record working in their favour, and after finishing as champions in Russia 2018 and runners-up in Qatar 2022, they remain on course to become only the third team to contest three consecutive finals in the history of the competition.

Head-to-Head History
France are unbeaten across five H2Hs (W3, D2), which includes a 7-3 victory at the 1958 World Cup and a 1-0 triumph during the round of 16 in 1998 on their way to winning the tournament.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Paraguay scored more than once in just one of their last seven internationals.

Paraguay have kept a first-half clean sheet in seven of their last eight fixtures.

France have led at half-time in eight of their last nine games.

France have received only one yellow card across their last six matches.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Matías Galarza has contributed to Paraguay’s last two goals at this tournament (G1, A1) and was also booked in both of those games. Kylian Mbappé has registered 11 goal contributions (G9, A2) in his last five World Cup outings, with five of his six goals so far at this edition arriving after the 40th minute.

Paraguay’s Julio Enciso picked up an injury in the last round, while Marcus Thuram is out for France.

Betting Analysis
With his incredible form and consistency at World Cups, backing Mbappé to score 2+ goals could be a smart move.

Author: Tom Penn

Brazil v Norway

Five-time FIFA World Cup champions Brazil go up against a Norway side who are inexperienced at this stage when they meet in New Jersey in the last 16.

Match News and Current Form

Brazil only topped Group C on goal difference after claiming seven points (W2, D1) and survived another scare in the last 32 as they needed to come from behind and net a stoppage-time winner to beat Japan 2-1. That was the first time Seleção won a World Cup knockout game from behind since toppling England in the 2002 quarter-finals en-route to glory, and it’s hard to see just what could derail a Brazil side who’ve won nine of their last ten last 16 matches at this tournament. The opposition muddy the water somewhat though, as Brazil have incredibly lost each of their last six post-group stage World Cup games against European opposition.

Norway finished as runners-up in Group I after rotating almost their entire starting XI on matchday three against France with a top-two finish already secured by back-to-back victories. Ståle Solbakken’s rotation paid off as his side beat Ivory Coast 2-1 in the last 32, with that the Scandinavian nation’s first-ever World Cup knockout success after defeats to Italy in both 1938 and 1998. Boss Solbakken played in the latter of those Italian-inflicted heartbreaks 28 years ago, and must now attempt to mastermind what would arguably be the Vikings’ greatest-ever result as they bid to bypass the last 16 for the first time ever at this tournament, something 15 wins from their last 20 matches (D3, L2) suggest they’re more than capable of doing.

Head-to-Head History
Norway are unbeaten in their four H2Hs against Brazil to date (W2, D2), with that sequence including a 2-1 victory at the 1998 World Cup!

Hot Stats and Streaks
Four of Brazil’s last five games featured exactly three goals.

Seven of Brazil’s nine goals at this tournament so far arrived after the 30th minute.

All four of Norway’s 2026 World Cup games saw both teams score.

Norway’s last five competitive matches all produced a goal after the 85th minute.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Bruno Guimarães has registered four assists during Brazil’s World Cup campaign so far, including for their stoppage-time winner against Japan, with only Pelé (six) having ever recorded more for Seleção during a single edition. Fellow playmaker, Norway’s Martin Ødegaard, could become the first player on record (since 1966) to register an assist in each of his first four World Cup appearances having managed three in three thus far.

Brazil will have to check on the fitness of Casemiro, but there are serious doubts over the availability of Lucas Paquetá and Raphinha. Norway hope to have Julian Ryerson back from his thigh injury.

Betting Analysis
Both teams have phenomenal attacking talent, and Norway matches are typically high-scoring, so backing over 3.5 goals appears a smart choice.

Author: Ben Olawumi

Mexico v England

The iconic Azteca awaits England in the last 16, as they journey to the Mexican capital to face co-hosts Mexico in what looks like a huge banana skin for the Three Lions.

Match News and Current Form
Mexico have been handed a near-perfect route so far in the World Cup, with this their fourth game of five to be played at the Azteca. Being the co-hosts, their games were always going to have a ‘home’ feel to them, but the Azteca feels like more than just home to Mexico as they’ve incredibly only been beaten twice on this ground in competitive fixtures (W70, D17). Their future lies outside of Mexico for the rest of the tournament if they advance here, but utilising their huge advantage one last time seems highly probable having never lost a World Cup match in Mexico City before (W8, D2), winning the last six in succession. It’s not just history on their side though, recent form is too, as not only are they unbeaten in 12 internationals in 2026 (W10, D2), but they’ve won all four World Cup games at this edition without conceding a single goal after beating Ecuador 2-0 in the last-32, a feat no one else can match.

England flattered to deceive in their last-32 tie as they limped to an unconvincing 2-1 victory against DR Congo. That’s been a theme for the Three Lions in the tournament so far - flattering to deceive yet getting the job done - but that’s likely to be tricky to repeat here, not only due to Mexico’s phenomenal record at the Azteca, but also due to altitude, with the stadium sitting 7220 feet above sea level. Thomas Tuchel’s side are believed to be delaying their arrival in Mexico City as late as possible due to the effects of altitude being lessened in the first 48 hours, while fears they may be spied on have also added to the mystique surrounding this game. England also have some negative history to overcome on this ground, as it was here where Argentina’s Diego Maradona scored his infamous ‘Hand of God’ goal against them back in 1986, but having won five of their last six games (D1), Tuchel ought to believe his side have what it takes to silence the outside noise.

Head-to-Head History
England have won the last four H2Hs and also beat Mexico at the 1966 World Cup en route to lifting the trophy for the only time.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Only two of Mexico’s last 12 matches saw both teams score.

Nine of Mexico’s 12 internationals in 2026 produced under 2.5 goals.

Seven of England’s last ten matches featured under 2.5 goals

England’s last six World Cup goals arrived after half-time.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Mexico might not only lean on Raúl Jiménez for an insight on the English team having played in England since 2018, but also for goals given he’s scored six in 12 appearances against opposition keeper Jordan Pickford. Conceding once more would be a less than ideal way for Pickford to celebrate making his 17th World Cup appearance - the joint most for any England goalkeeper.

Mexico look to have a clean bill of health, while England have huge concerns over Declan Rice’s fitness, just as Reece James is in line to return.

Betting Analysis
Given the challenges lying in wait for England, backing a Mexico win seems an incredibly attractive prospect.

Author: Chris Wilson

Portugal v Spain

Neighbours Portugal and Spain meet in Arlington for their first encounter since last year’s UEFA Nations League (UNL) final when they lock horns in this last 16 World Cup tie.

Match News and Current Form
Portugal left it late in their 2-1 victory over Croatia in the last 32, but progression was all that mattered as they close in on reaching back-to-back World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history. A historical stumbling block comes in the fact they haven’t won consecutive World Cup knockout games since 2006, although they’re still likely to feel well placed to exorcise those demons here having won 12 of their last 17 matches (D4, L1). Conceding no more than once in any of the last nine games within that run gives them a solid foundation to build upon ahead of what could be Cristiano Ronaldo’s last-ever World Cup match should Portugal be eliminated here.

Spain cruised into the last 16 with a 3-0 demolition of Austria, becoming the first team since Germany in the 2014 final to not allow a single shot on target in a World Cup knockout match. That impenetrable defending has been the story of not only their tournament but under Luis de la Fuente, who remains unbeaten at major tournaments (W10, D1), with only four goals conceded in those 11 games. Spain's only defeat since June 2023 coming on penalties against Portugal last year offers a huge note of caution ahead of this clash, but with a World Cup quarter-final and a slice of history at stake as one more unbeaten game would equal the countries’ longest-ever unbeaten run (35 games), Spain have more than enough incentive to enact revenge here.

Head-to-Head History
Portugal may have triumphed in the UNL final last year, but have won only one of the 12 competitive H2Hs in regulation time (D6, L5).

Hot Stats and Streaks
Portugal scored exactly twice in four of their last five wins.

Six of Portugal’s eight matches this year stood level at half-time.

Spain kept a clean sheet in nine of their last ten competitive games.

Spain have received just two yellow cards at this World Cup

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Gonçalo Ramos now averages a goal or assist every 37 minutes at World Cups - the best of any Portuguese player in history with at least five goal contributions - while Portugal have won on his last eight international scoring appearances. Following his double against Austria, Mikel Oyarzabal has scored 17 goals in his last 16 starts for Spain, opening the scoring in three of the last four of those matches.

Both teams look to be close to full strength, with Spain expecting Nico Williams to return here.

Betting Analysis
Neither of these teams lose often, and having also drawn in regulation time in the UNL final last year, backing another stalemate could be a solid approach.

Author: Aaron Murphy

USA v Belgium

Co-hosts USA will look to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 2002 as they welcome Belgium to Seattle’s Lumen Field, which has already hosted both sides a combined three times at the tournament.

Match News and Current Form
Reaching the last 16 at a World Cup for the seventh time (W1, L5) following a workmanlike 2-0 win over Bosnia, USA could make history by matching their deepest traversal into the tournament this century. Mauricio Pochettino was dealt a fresh headache with top-scorer Folarin Balogun (G3) seeing red in that victory, which will undoubtedly provide a morale boost for Belgium’s backline. Despite that setback, USA are now the only non-UEFA or CONMEBOL nation to score at least twice in four straight games at the finals, with those eight goals coming from six different players, emphasising the co-hosts’ strength in depth.

Belgium have made their name by overcoming adversity at this tournament, ultimately winning their group on the final matchday courtesy of a big win against New Zealand after drawing their first two games. Going on to become the first side to progress from a knockout round from a two-goal deficit since 2018 with a last-gasp extra-time winner against Senegal here in Seattle last time out, the Red Devils’ resolve cannot be underestimated. Typifying their boundless patience and resilience is the fact that while Belgium have managed a mere 2.6% shot conversion rate before half-time at the tournament so far (1/39), they boast a much healthier 14% after the interval (7/50).

Head-to-Head History
Since beating Belgium 3-0 at the 1930 World Cup, USA have lost each of the six H2Hs in all competitions while conceding 15 times across that run of reversals. Belgium have also won each of their last three clashes at the World Cup against CONCACAF sides, while USA’s only defeat at this edition came against UEFA nation Turkey.

Hot Stats and Streaks
USA’s last nine internationals have averaged 4.1 total goals per game.

USA attempted 13 shots on average across their four World Cup matches.

Belgium have attempted a tournament-high 92 shots across their four games (23 per-match average).

Belgium have conceded just two second-half goals across their last seven games.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
USA’s Malik Tillman scored his first goal of the tournament to put his nation out of sight in the previous round. His only two prior scoring international appearances saw him net the opener before half-time. Belgium’s Youri Tielemans scored the latest goal on record (since 1966) at a World Cup with his round of 32 winner at 124:44, which now means his last four goalscoring games for club and country have seen him net decisively.

USA will be without the aforementioned Folarin Balogun, while Belgium have no fresh injury concerns.

Betting Analysis
Given how well matched these sides appear, we’re going for a long-odds selection for the match to be decided by a penalty shootout in pursuit of value.

Author: Matthew Billon

Argentina v Egypt

Defending FIFA World Cup champions Argentina limped into the last 16, and now face seemingly a much sterner test in Atlanta against a history-making Egypt.

Match News and Current Form
There was nothing convincing about Argentina’s last-16 showing, as they needed extra time to beat Cape Verde 3-2. Winning was the ultimate prize for Argentina, and they’ve got a knack for doing just that at the moment, doing so in 11 successive games, heightening belief that they can become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to lift back-to-back titles. The likelihood of taking the next step on the road appears high for Lionel Scaloni’s men, as only one defending champion has ever lost at this stage, with each of the last five winning. The positive omens continue to stack up for La Albiceleste, who have also tasted success in their last 24 matches on neutral territory, so it’s hard to see any way in which they don’t progress here.

Egypt made history in their last-32 clash with Australia, as their penalties victory served as their first-ever knockout win at a World Cup finals. More history beckons for the Pharaohs here as they could become just the fifth African country to reach a World Cup quarter-final, and although a huge obstacle stands in their way in the form of Argentina, one defeat in their last eight internationals (W4, D3) proves Hossam Hassan’s men should at least be competitive here. Three of their four games at this World Cup have so far ended 1-1 after 90 minutes and hint at a close game here too, but only ever beating a side from the CONMEBOL federation once in their history (D3, L12) suggests they may just fall on the wrong side of fine margins.

Head-to-Head History
These two teams have met once before, with Argentina winning a friendly 2-0 in 2008, while the South American side have also won eight successive fixtures against African countries at the World Cup.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Argentina have scored 2+ goals in ten successive World Cup matches.

Argentina opened the scoring before the 30th minute in four of their last five games.

Egypt’s last six World Cup fixtures saw both teams score.

Egypt netted exactly one first-half goal in four of their last five internationals.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
The all-time leading scorer at the World Cup, Argentina’s Lionel Messi is seeking to become just the sixth player in history to score in his team’s first five games at a World Cup. No player enters the last 16 having created more chances than Egypt’s Mohamed Salah (16) - none of his last six international goals arrived before the 40th minute.

Argentina have no fresh concerns. Mohamed Hany is likely to be missing for Egypt with concussion, while Ahmed Fatouh’s hamstring issue could keep him out once more.

Betting Analysis
Egypt have proven to be a tricky customer at this World Cup, but this is a huge step up in opposition, so Argentina to win and both teams to score may carry value.

Author: Matt Jones

Switzerland v Colombia

The 2026 World Cup round of 16 concludes with Switzerland taking on Colombia in Vancouver, with both sides seeking to earn a rare quarter-final appearance.

Match News and Current Form
Switzerland were in control throughout their 2-0 win over Algeria in the round of 32, and made history by easing to their first-ever set of three consecutive World Cup victories. A maiden knockout win in this competition since 1938 extended their unbeaten run to seven matches (W4, D3), with that good form built on keeping it tight early on - none of those games saw the Red Crosses concede before the 50th minute. Another solid start could see Murat Yakin’s side grow in confidence as they target unprecedented back-to-back World Cup knockout wins and a first quarter-final appearance since 1954.

Colombia broke down Ghana’s low block to win their first knockout game 1-0 and keep a third consecutive clean sheet in this competition - only Mexico and Spain had kept more (four) before the start of this round. Another one here might be needed, as although Los Cafeteros have recorded an impressive-looking 20+ shots in each of their last three fixtures, the average xG of those shots was the second-lowest among sides to reach the last 16 (0.08)! Given that they’ve only won one of their last three World Cup round of 16 games, there’s a pressing need for more precision in front of goal if they’re to reach their first quarter-final since 2014.

Head-to-Head History
Colombia have lost just one of four previous H2Hs (W2, D1), and won 2-0 at the 1994 World Cup, but they’re winless in three games against European opponents in 2026 (D1, L2).

Hot Stats and Streaks
Switzerland scored first in 15 of their last 17 matches.

Fewer than two Switzerland players were booked in each of their last nine competitive games.

Three of Colombia’s last five fixtures produced exactly one first-half goal.

Four of Colombia’s last five games produced fewer than eight corners.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Johan Manzambi has five goal contributions for Switzerland at this World Cup (G3, A2), with only Thomas Müller (eight in 2010) contributing to more goals in a single edition while aged under 21 in the last 60 years. Jhon Arias has scored three goals across Colombia‘s last five games, while his country have won five of his six goalscoring appearances for them (L1).

Luca Jaquez and Denis Zakaria are doubts for Switzerland while Jhon Córdoba made an early exit from Colombia’s win over Ghana due to injury.

Betting Analysis
This could well be a tight contest between two defensively solid teams, so backing under 1.5 goals could hold some appeal.

Author: John Pennington

Last 8 - 1/4 Finals

Best of Luck to all.

France v Morocco

In a repeat of the 2022 World Cup semi-final, tournament favourites France collide with African powerhouse Morocco in Boston, with both looking to reach the same stage of the 2026 edition.

Match News and Current Form
France breezed through their first four games of this World Cup owing much to their superstar-laden attack, but were forced to grind out a hot-tempered 1-0 win over Paraguay in the last 16. Les Bleus are now unbeaten in 12 competitive matches (W11, D1), winning the last seven in a row, and stretching that run to eight for the first time since 2004 would make them just the third nation to ever reach three consecutive World Cup semi-finals. Manager Didier Deschamps also makes history as he takes charge of a record-equalling 25th match at the finals, but notching a 20th win is no foregone conclusion given that three of France’s non-penalty shootout World Cup defeats this century have come against African opponents (3/6).

Morocco were ruthless in their last-16 victory, putting three unanswered goals past co-hosts Canada from just four shots on target to progress. The Atlas Lions are responsible for both instances of an African team going unbeaten in their first five games at a single World Cup, and will be out for revenge having been beaten by France in their sixth game in 2022. That would mark just the second time an African side has reached the semi-final of the World Cup after themselves four years ago, and a ten-match unbeaten run since the Africa Cup of Nations final (W7, D3) certainly suggests they’re capable of upsetting the odds here.

Head-to-Head History
France have avoided defeat in all prior six H2Hs (W4, D2), winning the only prior competitive meeting 2-0 in the 2022 semi-final.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Four of France’s five games at this World Cup have produced over 8.5 total corners.

Thirteen of France’s last 16 wins came by 2+ goal margins.

Seven of Morocco’s last nine World Cup defeats came by a one-goal margin.

Morocco have been given one or fewer yellow cards in four of their five games at this World Cup.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
In the shadows of Kylian Mbappé’s heroics, France’s Michael Olise has eight goal involvements in his last six appearances for Les Bleus (G3, A5), with those five assists all coming at this World Cup and leaving him just three short of the all-time competition record! Having shone at the 2022 edition, Morocco’s Azzedine Ounahi netted a brace against Canada to end his 11-game wait to score at the finals. All eight of his international scoring appearances came in wins for the Atlas Lions, the last seven of which were accompanied by a clean sheet.

Both teams appear to have a major injury concern, with France’s Aurélien Tchouaméni and Morocco’s Ismael Saibari doubtful for this game through muscle problems.

Betting Analysis
Morocco are bound to make this tough for Les Bleus, but the favourites’ quality should shine through, so France to progress combined with under 2.5 goals looks a solid option.

Author: Ryan Fisher

Spain v Belgium

Spain and Belgium will play their first competitive head-to-head match in nearly 17 years when they meet in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals after contrasting wins on Monday US time.

Match News and Current Form
Spain avenged their 2025 UEFA Nations League final loss to Portugal when Mikel Merino scored what was a record-breaking tenth last-minute winner at this World Cup, sending his country through to their first quarter-final at the tournament since winning it in 2010. That remains their only ever World Cup last-eight victory, but this appears to be a new era of Spanish football under manager Luis de la Fuente, who could become just the third boss of a European nation to advance from each of his first seven knockout ties at a major tournament. La Roja will already be buoyed by the fact that they became the first country ever to record six consecutive World Cup clean sheets after beating Portugal.

Belgium could be the team to give this seemingly invincible Spanish defence their toughest test yet though, after they became the first nation at this year’s tournament to register more than 100 shots following their 4-1 defeat of co-hosts USA. Spurred on by the Folarin Balogun red-card controversy, Rudi Garcia’s men extended their unbeaten run to 18 matches (W12, D6) - averaging more than three goals per game in that time. The Red Devils have only had an eight-year wait for another World Cup quarter-final appearance and would be delighted to repeat their previous one, defeating Brazil 2-1 in 2018 on the way to finishing in third place.

Head-to-Head History
These teams have met only once since sharing a group in 2010 World Cup qualification. Spain won 2-0 in a 2016 friendly on that occasion, extending a H2H winning streak that began in 2004 to five games.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Just three of Spain’s last 15 matches saw both teams score.

Spain led at half-time in 11 of their last 12 regulation-time victories.

Five of Belgium’s last seven losses were by exactly a one-goal margin.

Ten of Belgium’s last 16 games produced over 4.5 goals.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Mikel Merino may warrant an earlier introduction here after opening his account for the tournament against Portugal, with ten of his 11 international goals coming in victories. Romelu Lukaku almost seemed destined to score off the bench against USA given his group-stage efforts, becoming the first man to find the net in four World Cup games as a substitute.

Spain have no fresh absentees after facing Portugal, while Belgium’s Amadou Onana will be out for some time with a serious knee injury.

Betting Analysis
Those expecting Spain to win here could get some additional value by backing them to lead at both half-time and full-time.

Author: Aaron Murphy

Norway v England

Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium is the venue for Norway’s historic FIFA World Cup quarter-final clash with an England side who overcame grave adversity to reach this stage.

Match News and Current Form
Formerly occupying the hotseat at English side Wolves for a brief spell, Ståle Solbakken and his Norway side have much more notably made history at this World Cup after securing arguably their greatest-ever international win against Brazil in the last 16 to secure a place in the quarter-final of a major tournament for the first time. Beating a side ranked inside FIFA’s top five was a huge coup for the Norwegians, who will have to repeat the feat if they’re to progress here, something that no wins from six prior World Cup clashes with UEFA opponents at the World Cup (D2, L4) suggests will be a tall order. That run includes a 4-1 defeat against France earlier in this tournament, but 16 victories from their last 21 internationals (D3, L2) should have them believing they have what it takes to break that duck here.

England overcame a man disadvantage, altitude, the Azteca and ultimately Mexico in a thrilling last-16 tie, as they collected a 3-2 victory to reach a fifth successive major tournament quarter-final. Thomas Tuchel’s men can’t afford to become complacent though having lost five of their last six World Cup knockout games against European sides, the most recent of which came in the last edition at this very stage against France. In spite of that negative historical omen, six wins from their last seven matches (D1) have helped fuel belief that the Three lions are hitting their stride at the perfect time, as their quest to end a 60-year wait for a major international honour continues to gather momentum.

Head-to-Head History
England have dominated the last 12 H2Hs (W7, D3, L2) as they seek a fifth straight clean sheet against Norway, although this is the first meeting since 2014.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Eleven of Norway’s last 12 games saw both teams score.

Norway’s last six competitive matches produced a goal after the 85th minute.

Four of England’s five World Cup games produced exactly two second-half goals.

England have scored on or beyond the hour mark in five of their last six internationals.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Born in Yorkshire and plying his trade in Manchester, Norway’s Erling Haaland has scored in his last 14 competitive international games, scoring 27 times in the process, as he now bids to become the first European to score in his first five World Cup games since Germany’s Gerd Müller in 1970. With his quickfire double against Mexico, Jude Bellingham became the first England midfielder ever to score 4+ goals at a World Cup, with those four strikes coming between the 30th and 65th minutes.

David Møller Wolfe is a concern for Norway after being forced off against Brazil. Jarell Quansah’s red card rules him out of this for England, while Jordan Henderson suffered a freak wrist injury during the celebrations against Mexico.

Betting Analysis
Given the attacking talent on display here, backing both teams to score and over 2.5 goals seems to be a sensible route to take.

Author: Matthew Billon

Argentina v Switzerland

Argentina are aiming to extend their unbeaten run in World Cup knockout matches when they face Switzerland in Kansas City, with the Swiss ending a 72-year wait for a World Cup quarter-final appearance.

Match News and Current Form
Argentina became the first team in World Cup history to overturn a 2+ goal deficit from as late as the 78th minute to win in regulation time during their thrilling 3-2 victory over Egypt in the last 16. That result extended their World Cup unbeaten run to 11 games (W9, D2), their longest in the history of the competition, as they moved one step closer to becoming the first side since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup, with their current 12-game winning streak currently placing them firmly on track to do so. The Selección have managed to restrict their opponents to just nine shots on target across this World Cup, but conceding five goals from those hints that Lionel Scaloni’s men tend to give up big opportunities.

Switzerland defeated Colombia on penalties in the last 16 to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1954, in what was just the second World Cup knockout match since the start of 2018 to finish goalless after extra time. This edition marks the first time the Swiss have ever won two knockout games at a World Cup and that Colombia triumph was just their second victory from their previous six penalty shootouts at major tournaments, signalling a major step forward for the #14-ranked nation. With only one defeat across their last 19 games (W12, D6) and that loss coming in a friendly, Murat Yakin’s men bring impressive form into what looks to be their most difficult assignment at this finals so far.

Head-to-Head History
Switzerland have never defeated Argentina in seven previous matches (D2, L5), losing both World Cup meetings. The Swiss have historically struggled against all South American nations, winning just two of their ten previous such World Cup games (D2, L6), although one was against Colombia in the last round.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Six of Argentina’s last seven World Cup knockout games saw both teams score.

Argentina have scored 2+ goals in each of their last 11 World Cup games.

Switzerland haven’t trailed at any point during the 2026 World Cup cycle (qualifiers and finals).

Switzerland conceded exactly one goal in five of their last seven matches.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Enzo Fernández’s winner against Egypt was the 3000th goal scored in World Cup history and also maintained his 100% winning record when scoring for Argentina (W7). Breel Embolo will look to make amends for a quiet day against Colombia as he boasts 13 goal contributions (G11, A2) in his last 17 appearances for Switzerland.

Argentina have no major injury concerns, while Switzerland could be without Johan Manzambi as he battles a minor knee injury.

Betting Analysis
Given Argentina’s recent record in World Cup knockout games, backing both teams to score seems a prudent pick.

Author: Sridhar Bhamidi

Semi-finals

France v Spain (Part1)

Two-time FIFA World Cup champions France square off against one-time winners Spain in a clash of European titans at the semi-final stage in Texas.

Match News and Current Form
Last lifting the World Cup back in 2018, France have enjoyed an almost flawless run in this tournament thus far, claiming the maximum of nine points on offer in Group I before progressing through three knockout games without conceding. Sweden (3-0, last 32) and Paraguay (1-0, last 16) were both downed before a dominant quarter-final showing saw Les Bleus beat Morocco 2-0, even after star man Kylian Mbappé missed an early penalty.

A third consecutive World Cup semi-final appearance means history has already been made by Didier Deschamps’ side, with France now having reached the last four of the tournament on eight occasions, a tally only bettered by Italy (12). On the day which sees Deschamps break the record for most World Cup matches managed (26), reaching a third final on the spin in the game’s greatest tournament would put them into an even more exclusive club of just three teams to achieve the feat, and more importantly, would present an opportunity to avenge the heartbreak of four years ago, when only a penalty shootout defeat to Argentina in Qatar stopped them going back-to-back.

Reigning European champions Spain shockingly failed to beat underdogs Cape Verde in their opening game of Group H (0-0), but recovered to top the table with seven points (W2, D1) and have gone from strength-to-strength since. Prior to this summer, La Roja hadn't won a knockout game at a World Cup since their 2010 triumph in South Africa, but saw off both Austria (3-0, last 32) and Portugal (1-0, last 16) before eventually conceding their first goal at the tournament as they beat Belgium 2-1 in the quarter-finals, with Mikel Merino the hero of the hour having grabbed late winners in their last two games.

Following on from 2010, this marks only Spain’s second appearance in the last four of a World Cup, with the positive omen here that they have progressed in six of their last seven semi-finals at major tournaments overall. Another positive for Spain is that Luis de la Fuente has managed more games across World Cups and Euros without losing than anyone (W12, D1), and his side will be confident of another success here having not lost any of their last 36 games in regulation time dating back to March 2024 (W26, D10). If that remarkable run is extended here, they would equal Italy’s all-time record of 37 set back in 2021.

Head-to-Head History
Spain have won 18 of the pair’s 38 H2Hs to date (D7, L13), including seven of the last ten (D1, L2), with semi-final victories in each of their two most recent meetings: 2-1 at Euro 2024 and 5-4 in the 2025 UEFA Nations League finals.

France v Spain (Part2)

Hot Stats and Streaks
Eleven of France’s 16 goals at the 2026 World Cup arrived after half-time.

France have averaged the most shots on target per game of any nation at the 2026 World Cup (7.8).

Only four of Spain’s last 16 games saw both teams score.

Spain have taken 7.33 corners per game on average during the 2026 World Cup.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
With five goals in this tournament, Ousmane Dembélé has now scored 12 times for France, but only two of those have seen him net the opener. Spain’s star man Lamine Yamal is yet to light up the 2026 World Cup, but has scored three goals across his two appearances against France to date and would love another here.

France will take caution over Kylian Mbappé after his withdrawal in their quarter-final win over Morocco, but expect to have their star man available. Spain appear to boast a clean bill of health.

Betting Analysis
The data suggests this game is likely to explode into life after the break, so backing the second half in the ‘highest scoring half’ market appears the logical choice.

Author: Ben Olawumi

England v Argentina (Part1)

A classic World Cup rivalry will write its next chapter in Atlanta, as England and Argentina clash for a sixth time in this competition with a place in the final on the line.

Match News and Current Form
England have been far from fluent in this World Cup, but their fighting spirit has shone through in the knockout stages, most recently battling from behind to beat Norway 2-1 after extra-time in the last eight. While boss Thomas Tuchel and talisman Jude Bellingham gave contrasting views of the Three Lions’ latest success, they’ve now reached a fourth major tournament semi-final since 2018 - as many as in their entire history prior. Tuchel is bidding to become the first foreign manager in 48 years to reach the World Cup final, while England haven’t reached that stage since winning the trophy in 1966, falling at the semi-final in both 1990 and 2018.

Defending champions Argentina have won all six games at this World Cup - and their last 12 at the finals overall - but have had to dig deep to navigate the knockout rounds. Lionel Scaloni’s men saw a second consecutive game marred by refereeing controversy as they needed extra-time to see off ten-man Switzerland 3-1 in the quarter-finals, making them the competition’s top scorers ahead of the semi-finals (17). That’s just one short of Argentina’s record in a single World Cup set in 1930 when they reached the final, and you would have to be brave to back against them here given that they possess the competition's best 100% win rate at the semi-final stage (W5).

Head-to-Head History
England may have only lost three of their 14 matches against Argentina (W6, D5), but the last two of those defeats came at the World Cup, famously in 1986 and 1998. The Three Lions have since gone unbeaten in three H2Hs (W2, D1), winning the last two.

England v Argentina (Part2)

Hot Stats and Streaks
England have failed to progress from all three major tournament knockout matches against sides ranked in the top four by FIFA.

England have taken just 11 corners across their knockout fixtures at this World Cup.

Argentina have scored 3+ goals in their last four World Cup games, the second-longest such run in competition history.

Six of Argentina’s last seven matches produced over 2.5 goals.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
England are the first team in World Cup history to see two players score six goals each at the same edition. Jude Bellingham has netted a brace in each of the previous two rounds, while captain Harry Kane is set to make his 121st appearance, setting a new all-time England record for outfield players in the process. Argentina’s Lionel Messi comes into the semi-final as the World Cup’s all-time top scorer (21) and assister (10), with each of those ten assists coming for different players.

Jarell Quansah remains suspended for England, who withdrew Declan Rice at half-time in the quarter-finals after he’d suffered with illness. Leandro Paredes and Cristian Romero limped off for Argentina in the quarter-final, but both are set to be fit.

For all the latest team news, please check the Flashscore match centre.

Betting Analysis
Argentina have won 11 of their 13 World Cup ties to go beyond 90 minutes, so a full-time draw and Argentina to qualify combination offers up nice value.

Author: Ryan Fisher

3rd / 4th PLACE

PLAYOFF

Best of Luck all.

France v England

Playing in the bronze medal match isn’t how France boss Didier Deschamps would’ve hoped to bring the curtain down on his glittering spell in charge, nor is it how England felt their tournament would end when they led late in their semi-final tie.

Match News and Current Form
France were widely tipped to go all the way in this competition, but their shortcomings were highlighted in a 2-0 semi-final defeat to Spain. There will be no fairytale ending for Deschamps, who takes charge of his final game at Les Bleus’ helm here, bringing to an end a glittering spell that saw them win the 2018 World Cup and end as runners-up in 2022. This will be his 187th match in charge - the most any French manager has ever overseen - and with a 77% win rate in his World Cup record 26 games in charge so far, he seems well placed to sign off on a high note. Seven successive wins prior to their Spain defeat should reinforce belief, not least because six of those also came by a 2+ goal margin.

It was a familiar tale of heartbreak for England in their semi-final clash with Argentina, as they let slip a 1-0 lead after the 80th minute to lose 2-1. The finger of blame was largely pointed at boss Thomas Tuchel, with England supporters believing his defensive substitutions handed the initiative to Argentina and cost them the game, but he must now quickly pick his side up as victory here would still secure their best World Cup finish since 1966. The Three Lions’ two prior appearances in the third-place play-off ended in defeat - only one team in history has ever lost three times at this stage - and for an England side who’ve now lost seven successive World Cup games against sides ranked in the top ten prior to the tournament, making unwanted history seems well within the realms of possibility.

Head-to-Head History
England have only won one of the last nine H2Hs (D2, L6) after they were knocked out of the 2022 World Cup by France.

Hot Stats and Streaks
Only one of France’s last six games saw both teams score.

France’s last seven World Cup goals arrived after the 40th minute.

England’s last four games saw both teams score.

Nine of England’s last 12 goals were scored after half-time.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Two Bayern Munich stars could light up this game, as France’s Michael Olise has assisted five goals at these finals, needing just one more to equal Pelé’s all-time record of six in a single World Cup edition, while this could prove to be Harry Kane’s last World Cup game for England. He’d sign off as the Three Lions’ all-time top World Cup goalscorer (14), the last four of which arrived on or beyond the hour mark.

France lost William Saliba to injury against Spain and he faces months on the sidelines with a back injury, while England’s Reece James picked up yet another knock against Argentina.

Betting Analysis
In what feels like nothing more than a consolation game, two teams who will have little interest in a bronze medal could play out a drab game featuring under 2.5 goals.

Author: Chris Wilson

WORLD CUP

FINALS