The 2026 FIFA World Cup expanded from 32 to 48 teams, introducing a Round of 32 in the knockout phase. While most outcomes followed expectations, the matches delivered excitement for fans and neutral observers alike. With the round concluding after Colombia defeated Ghana 1-0, several notable developments emerged.
Germany and Spain showed different results in their efforts to end long knockout droughts. Spain ended its streak with a 3-0 victory over Austria. Germany, however, exited after a 1-1 draw with Paraguay, losing on penalties in the round’s first major surprise. Italy, absent from this tournament, also remains without a knockout win since 2006.
The Golden Boot race opened strongly. Lionel Messi tops the scoring chart with seven goals, followed closely by Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane and Ousmane Dembele. Haaland became the first player since 1954 to score in his first three World Cup appearances. Kane set a new England record with 13 World Cup goals.
Luka Modric ended his World Cup career at age 40 after Croatia’s loss to Portugal. His 39 major-tournament appearances rank second among European outfield players. Modric played a central role in Croatia’s strong showings in 2018 and 2022.
Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon set a new record with 519 consecutive minutes without conceding, surpassing the previous mark of 517. Spain and Mexico remain the only teams yet to concede a goal.
All three host nations advanced. Canada beat South Africa 1-0, Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 for its first knockout win since 1986, and the United States overcame Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0.
Cabo Verde produced a memorable run before falling to Argentina in extra time via an own goal in the 111th minute. The team had earlier held Spain to a 0-0 draw.
