The stage is set for the first-ever Round of 32 in FIFA World Cup history after the conclusion of an action-packed group stage across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Thirty-two nations remain in the race for football’s biggest prize, while sixteen teams have seen their World Cup dreams come to an end.
The final qualification places were secured in dramatic fashion as Austria and Algeria battled to a thrilling 3-3 draw, a result that sent both nations into the knockout stage while ending Iran’s campaign.
Attention now turns to the knockout rounds, where there are no second chances. Every match will produce a winner, with extra time and penalties available if necessary.
The historic Round of 32 begins with South Africa taking on Canada in Los Angeles, marking the first match ever to be played under the tournament’s expanded knockout format.
Some of the standout fixtures include Brazil against Japan, Germany facing Paraguay, the Netherlands taking on Morocco, France meeting Sweden, Mexico against Ecuador, England facing DR Congo, Belgium against Senegal, Spain against Austria, Portugal versus Croatia, Argentina against Cape Verde and Colombia against Ghana.
Several storylines have emerged heading into the knockout stage. Mexico enters the Round of 32 after an impressive group campaign, while Morocco continues its bid to become the first African nation to win the FIFA World Cup. Africa also celebrates a record-breaking representation in the knockout stage, with South Africa, Morocco, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Algeria, Egypt, Ghana, Cape Verde and DR Congo all advancing.
The road to the World Cup final is now clear. Every match from this point forward is win or go home, as the world’s best nations battle for a place in football history.
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