The 2026 World Cup is on fire. The group stage is coming to an end and the round of 32 matchups are starting to take shape, that new playoff round FIFA introduced for this edition. From Sunday, June 28 to Friday, July 3, teams will give their all for a spot in the round of 16.
Some heavyweights have already secured their tickets: Mexico, United States, Germany, Argentina, France, Norway, and Colombia. But watch out, nothing is set in stone yet. Teams that finish second and third in their groups will have to sweat it out to get among the 32 still in the race.
The matchups promise to be true blockbusters. FIFA has already set up the bracket: the first-place team from Group A faces the third-place team from Group B or C, and so on. It all depends on how the groups end, which will be decided on the final matchday. But high-voltage duels are already on the horizon.
Argentina, led by Messi, is already qualified and awaits its rival. Scaloni’s men are coming in strong, but they know there is no margin for error in the playoffs. One slip-up and you’re out. France, with Mbappé on fire, is also through and promises to fight. Germany, which started hesitantly, has secured its place and wants to prove it is still a contender.
But it’s not all smooth sailing for the big teams. Norway, with Haaland as its star, is already qualified and could be the tournament’s surprise. Colombia, with its grit, is also in and promises to battle. Mexico and the United States, as hosts, want to make home advantage count.
The new round of 32 format adds an extra spice to the Cup. Before, third-place teams went home; now they have another chance. But the matches are do-or-die. In case of a tie, they go straight to extra time and penalties. No second chances.
Fans are already on edge. Tickets are flying, and bars are gearing up for late nights. The 2026 World Cup promises strong emotions from the start. And this round of 32 will be the prelude to a madness that is just beginning.
Who will take the ticket to the round of 16? Can Argentina defend its title? Will France strike? Or will a surprise team emerge? The ball is in play, and the answer lies on the pitch.
Watch the 2026 World Cup in the best quality
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- Smart TV Kanji 32″ LED HD – From $120,000 in 12 interest-free installments (VAFTS9-89J3)
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Para mí estos zurdos festejando un mundial que ni ganaron es un chiste. Argentina les pasa el trapo a cualquiera, pero estos 16avos son puro equipucho falopa, un mamarracho. Vamos Argentina carajo, a romperla toda.
Para mí esto huele a circo del capitalismo futbolero. Mientras la FIFA se llena los bolsillos, el pueblo laburante paga la cerveza cara. Yo creo que Argentina tiene que garrotear a los gorilas del norte. ¡Basta de farsa, Kléber el zurdo!