FIFA World Cup 2026 match schedule unveiled; referee Espen Eskås dismissed after Portugal‑Croatia dispute

FIFA released the complete knockout‑stage schedule for the 2026 World Cup, outlining round‑of‑16 pairings, dates, times and venues across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The bracket lists matches such as Canada vs. Morocco in Houston, Brazil vs. Norway in New Jersey, Mexico vs. England in Mexico City and Spain vs. Portugal in Texas, followed by quarter‑finals, semi‑finals and the final in New Jersey and Georgia.

A few days later FIFA announced that Norwegian referee Espen Eskås would be removed from the tournament after the controversial Portugal‑Croatia group match, in which a Croatian goal was disallowed and a Portuguese penalty awarded following VAR intervention. The decision was presented as a loss of confidence in the official’s performance.

These developments highlight both the logistical planning of the tournament and the governing body’s swift response to officiating criticism.