The 2026 FIFA World Cup continued to produce high drama on Monday, July 6, as the Round of 16 entered another crucial day, with several European heavyweights advancing and the remaining quarterfinal places still up for grabs. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, has entered its decisive knockout phase, where every match determines survival.
The biggest talking point from Sunday’s action was England’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Mexico, a result that ended the host nation’s World Cup dream while sending England into the quarterfinals. England displayed resilience under pressure, overcoming a spirited Mexican side in one of the tournament’s most entertaining matches.
Another major upset came as Norway stunned Brazil 2-1, eliminating the five-time world champions. Norway’s disciplined defending and clinical finishing proved enough to send one of football’s traditional giants home early, marking one of the biggest surprises of the 2026 World Cup.
Monday’s Round of 16 fixtures featured two blockbuster encounters. Spain edged Portugal 1-0, with the Iberian rivals producing a tense tactical battle that ended Portugal’s campaign. The match also marked what Portuguese captain Cristiano Ronaldo described as his final FIFA World Cup appearance, bringing an end to one of the greatest World Cup careers in football history.
In Seattle, Belgium defeated the United States 4-1 to secure a place in the quarterfinals. Belgium capitalized on defensive mistakes and produced an impressive attacking display to eliminate one of the tournament’s co-hosts. The match was overshadowed by controversy surrounding the eligibility of U.S. striker Folarin Balogun after FIFA suspended his red-card ban before kickoff, prompting criticism from several football officials and federations.
Attention now turns to the remaining Round of 16 matches, where Argentina face Egypt and Switzerland meet Colombia, with the final two quarterfinal berths at stake.
Teams currently through to the Quarterfinals
England
Norway
Morocco
France
Spain
Belgium
The winners of Argentina vs. Egypt and Switzerland vs. Colombia will complete the quarterfinal lineup.
With the tournament entering its final stages, every match now carries enormous significance as 48 nations have been reduced to a handful of contenders chasing football’s biggest prize.
