The 2026 FIFA World Cup has entered the knockout stage, with round-of-16 games underway and quarterfinal matchups beginning to take shape. The tournament, co-hosted across North America, has elevated stakes as teams vie for a place in the final.
Key storylines include Mexico's round-of-16 meeting with England, which has been preceded by Mexican fans gathering outside England's hotel in Mexico City overnight to blast horns and set off fireworks. The same tactics were used before Mexico's 2–0 win over Ecuador, prompting a formal complaint from Ecuador's federation. Elsewhere, Spain captain Rodri warned Portugal ahead of Monday's last-16 clash that the European champions can still improve despite a shock 0–0 draw with debutants Cape Verde to open their campaign.
The round of 16 features high-profile matchups including Spain vs. Portugal and Mexico vs. England, with the winning sides advancing to the quarterfinals. The bracket is tightening as favorites and underdogs alike push for World Cup glory.
Up next, the quarterfinals will determine the semifinalists, with the tournament's highest-altitude venue—Mexico City's Azteca Stadium—set to host key matches. The iconic stadium's elevation affects player performance and has been a talking point among teams.