The World Cup’s last 16 teams are confirmed, and some of the game’s most prominent teams are in the mix. All three co-hosts continue their campaigns: the U.S. faces Belgium, Canada goes up against Morocco, and Mexico hosts England at the Azteca Stadium. Defending champions Argentina remain in contention, having survived a major scare against Cape Verde, the smallest nation to reach the knockout rounds.
Key Matchup Predictions
Our writers have shared their predictions on the best ties in the bracket, potential upsets, top performers, and more.
Best Round of 16 Ties
Stuart James: Exciting matchups include Mexico against England and Brazil against Norway. However, Spain against Portugal promises to be a classic encounter.
Oliver Kay: The Iberian derby between Portugal and Spain could be high-quality. Mexico vs England will be compelling, offering drama and tension.
Phil Hay: Brazil versus Norway is intriguing. Norway had a strong qualifying campaign with an impressive goalscorer, making them a possible challenge to Brazil.
Laura Williamson and Tim Spiers: Mexico vs England at the Azteca adds excitement due to the location and history.
Dermot Corrigan: Portugal and Spain have met frequently, but Mexico vs England in the Azteca provides a unique and memorable atmosphere.
Carl Anka: USA vs Belgium may not immediately excite, but the impact on U.S. soccer could be significant.
Simon Hughes: Mexico vs England stands out at the Azteca.
Potential Upsets
James: Norway against Brazil may appear an upset historically, but Norway’s form suggests they could surprise. Key factors include their qualifying success and goal-scoring potential.
Kay: USA vs Belgium is another possible upset, with the U.S. having belief and momentum heading into the encounter.
Hay: The U.S. men’s national team could upset Belgium despite missing Folarin Balogun.
Spiers and Corrigan: Brazil’s vulnerability raises the possibility of Norway achieving a surprise win.
Anka: Mexico’s remarkable record at the Azteca increases their chances against England, highlighting their recent form.
Weese: Canada’s presence in this round makes their game against Morocco intriguing.
Golden Boot Standings
James: Lionel Messi seems poised to lead, thanks to his current form and Argentina’s favorable path.
Kay, Hay, and Williamson: Expect a close battle between Messi and Mbappe for the top scorer title.
Corrigan: Messi should continue to score, while Mikel Oyarzabal from Spain may emerge as a surprise contender.
Surprising Elements
James: This World Cup has been highly competitive, often featuring dramatic finishes and unpredictable outcomes.
Kay: Besides captivating matches, Cape Verde’s performance and the lenient refereeing have been noteworthy.
Hay: The enthusiasm and large crowds in Mexico have been impressive.
Corrigan: The performance of Lionel Messi is proving skeptics wrong.
Weese: This tournament has seen an abundance of stoppage-time goals, making games more thrilling.
Top Stadiums
James: The Azteca Stadium stands out as a historic and atmospheric venue, hosting Mexico-England.
Spiers: Lumen Field in Seattle will offer an exciting atmosphere when the U.S. meets Belgium.
Hughes: The Azteca remains a must-visit destination for its association with World Cup history.
Round of 32 Standout Performers
James: Michael Olise’s grace and potential have been a joy to watch.
Kay: Harry Kane’s crucial goals have uplifted England.
Corrigan: Rodri’s influence was pivotal in Spain’s match against Austria.
Best Goals
James: Sidny Lopes Cabral’s spectacular strike for Cape Verde caught attention.
Kay: Kylian Mbappe’s strike against Sweden was a highlight.
Williamson and Spiers: Harry Kane’s goal against DR Congo was memorable.
Teams That Could Challenge France
James and Kay: Despite being favorites, France could face challenges from strong teams like Spain.
Hughes and Weese: France can be stopped by several teams before the final, including Morocco and Spain.
Miller: Brazil might surprise many by triumphing over France, according to initial predictions.