2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage schedule unveiled

The FIFA World Cup 2026, the first edition featuring 48 national teams, has completed its group stage with 32 sides advancing to the knockout round. The round of 32 begins on Sunday, 28 June, with the opening match between South Africa and co‑host Canada in Los Angeles. Subsequent fixtures include Brazil vs Japan, Germany vs Paraguay, the Netherlands vs Morocco, Ivory Coast vs Norway, France vs Sweden, Mexico vs Ecuador, England vs DR Congo, Belgium vs Senegal, the United States vs Bosnia‑Herzegovina, Spain vs Austria and Portugal vs Croatia.

The schedule runs through 4 July, culminating with the round‑of‑16, quarter‑finals and onward. Argentina, the defending champion, topped its group and will face Green Cape in the first knockout game. France, Germany, Spain, Portugal and other traditional powers are set for potential high‑profile clashes in later rounds. The tournament is staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Key details: 48 teams in 12 groups, 32 advance, match times listed in Greek local time, and venues span major North‑American cities.