**FIFA World Cup 2026: Round of 16 Match Schedule and Qualified Teams**
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup progresses, the tournament is set to enter the knockout phase with the Round of 16 matches commencing this weekend. The excitement builds as teams from around the globe vie for a spot in the quarter-finals. The knockout stage promises thrilling encounters, starting with the first matches scheduled for Saturday, July 4.
A total of 16 teams have successfully qualified for this critical stage of the competition, each having demonstrated their skill and determination in the group matches. The following teams have made it through to the Round of 16:
- **Canada**: Secured their place by defeating South Africa 1-0.
- **Brazil**: Advanced after a hard-fought victory against Japan, winning 2-1.
- **Paraguay**: Progressed by overcoming Germany in a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 4-3 on penalties.
- **Morocco**: Qualified by defeating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties.
- **Norway**: Achieved a 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast to secure their advancement.
- **France**: Dominated their match against Sweden, winning 3-0.
- **Mexico**: The co-hosts moved forward after a 2-0 win against Ecuador.
- **England**: Beat the Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1 to secure their spot.
- **Belgium**: Narrowly defeated Senegal 3-2.
- **USA**: Qualified with a 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- **Spain**: Showcased their strength with a 3-0 win against Austria.
- **Portugal**: Advanced by defeating Croatia 2-1.
- **Switzerland**: Secured a 2-0 win over Algeria.
- **Egypt**: Progressed after a tense penalty shootout victory against Australia, winning 4-2 on penalties.
- **Argentina**: Defeated Cape Verde 3-2 to move on.
- **Colombia**: Secured their advancement with a 1-0 win against Ghana.
The Round of 16 matches are set to take place as follows:
- **Canada vs Morocco**: July 4, Saturday, at Houston Stadium, 17:00 GMT
- **Paraguay vs France**: July 4, Saturday, at Philadelphia Stadium, 21:00 GMT
- **Brazil vs Norway**: July 5, Sunday, at New York/New Jersey Stadium, 20:00 GMT
- **Mexico vs England**: July 5, Sunday, at Mexico City Stadium, 00:00 GMT on Monday
- **Portugal vs Spain**: July 6, Monday, at Dallas Stadium, 19:00 GMT
- **USA vs Belgium**: July 6, Monday, at Seattle Stadium, 00:00 GMT on Tuesday
- **Argentina vs Egypt**: July 7, Tuesday, at Atlanta Stadium, 16:00 GMT
- **Switzerland vs Colombia**: July 7, Tuesday, at BC Place Vancouver, 20:00 GMT
Among the standout players in the tournament, Argentina's forward Lionel Messi has been particularly notable, celebrating his seventh goal of the tournament. He is currently a leading contender for the Golden Boot, awarded to the top scorer of the tournament.
As the knockout stage approaches, fans around the world are gearing up for what promises to be an exhilarating series of matches. Each game will be crucial, as teams aim to secure their place in the quarter-finals and continue their journey towards the coveted World Cup trophy.