Portugal to Clash with Spain as World Cup Reaches Last 16

The FIFA World Cup 2026 moves to the Round of 16 this weekend. Fans can expect exciting matches and possible surprises as teams aim for spots in the quarterfinals.

Big teams like Brazil, France, England, Spain, and Portugal are still in the tournament. Meanwhile, Morocco, Norway, and Paraguay have surprised many with their performances.

The knockout phase of World Cup 2026 hits a big milestone today, Friday, July 3, as the Round of 32 wraps up. This tournament format with 48 teams has brought plenty of drama and unexpected results. The last matches of the Round of 32 will decide which teams move on to the last 16.

The final matches on Friday will confirm the last teams advancing to the Round of 16, PUNCH Online reports.

• Australia vs Egypt
• Argentina vs Cape Verde
• Colombia vs Ghana

These three matches will finish the Round of 32 lineup and set up the Round of 16 bracket.

Round of 16 Kicks Off Saturday

The Round of 16 starts on Saturday, July 4, with two exciting matches:

Saturday, July 4

Canada vs Morocco
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
1:00 PM EDT

Canada’s impressive run faces a hard challenge against Morocco, who recently won a nail-biting penalty shootout against the Netherlands. Both teams are looking for their first deep run in the World Cup, so expect a tough match.

Paraguay vs France
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
5:00 PM EDT

France comes in as a top contender after beating Sweden 3-0. Paraguay has already shocked Germany and will hope to pull off another surprise. The winner will face either Canada or Morocco in the quarterfinals.

Sunday, July 5

Brazil vs Norway
Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens
4:00 PM EDT

Five-time champions Brazil are on the hunt for another title against a tough Norwegian team that defeated Ivory Coast in the last round. Brazil are favorites, but Norway has shown they can challenge strong teams.

Mexico vs England
NRG Stadium, Houston
8:00 PM EDT

One of the key matches of the Round of 16 sees England take on Mexico. England passed a tough test from DR Congo, while Mexico had an easier time against Ecuador.

Monday, July 6

Portugal vs Spain
AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
3:00 PM EDT

A major Iberian clash highlights Monday’s games. Spain easily defeated Austria, while Portugal won a close match against Croatia. Few games have the history and rivalry of this all-European face-off.

United States vs Belgium
SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
8:00 PM EDT

The host nation takes on one of Europe’s best teams in what should be a thrilling match. Belgium’s strong attack will face an American team ready to use their home advantage.

Tuesday, July 7

Winner of Argentina/Cape Verde vs Winner of Australia/Egypt
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
12:00 PM EDT

Argentina is expected to be in this match, but Cape Verde, Australia, and Egypt all aim to cause an upset. A spot in the quarterfinals is up for grabs.

Switzerland vs Winner of Colombia/Ghana
Lumen Field, Seattle
4:00 PM EDT

Switzerland made it through after beating Algeria. Colombia and Ghana will fight for the last place in the Round of 16. This game could reveal a surprising quarterfinalist.

Quarterfinal Matchups

• Winner of Canada vs Morocco plays Winner of Paraguay vs France.
• Winner of Brazil vs Norway faces Winner of Mexico vs England.
• Winner of Portugal vs Spain meets Winner of United States vs Belgium.
• Winner of Argentina/Cape Verde vs Australia/Egypt faces Winner of Switzerland vs Colombia/Ghana.

The World Cup race is now down to 16 teams. One bad game ends the dream; one great performance keeps the hope alive.

PUNCH Online reports that the Round of 16 will showcase football’s biggest stars and stories. From the Americas to Europe, Africa, and Asia, the race for World Cup glory is now in the hands of global stars and those looking to make their mark.

Stars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are on the hunt for what could be their last chance at greatness. Meanwhile, a new wave of talent like Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Erling Haaland, and Lamine Yamal are ready to shine on the big stage.

Add in stars like Ousmane Dembélé, Achraf Hakimi, Kevin De Bruyne, Jude Bellingham and many others, and this knockout round is packed with quality.

Former champions want to write another chapter in their history, while new teams aim for their breakthrough moment. Every match now carries the weight of legacy.

The biggest stars of the World Cup have reached the final stages of the tournament. Only the very best will move forward.