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In the first Round of 32 match in men’s World Cup history, Canada came out victorious with a stoppage-time goal over South Africa in Los Angeles.

It wasn’t a classic, but the Canadians – playing their first match of the tournament away from home soil – won’t care one iota. All they know is that they’re in the Round of 16 for the first time in men’s World Cup history thanks to a dramatic, late goal from their 29-year-old midfielder Stephen Eustáquio. 

The end of the first half ended with Canadian domination as it looked to push Bafana Bafana with set pieces, but South Africa kept defending with its life. There was a call for a penalty but nothing was given. The half ended with an angry Canadian side as Jesse Marsch had to calm them down before heading into the tunnel. 

The second half continued to struggle with legitimate opportunities, but South Africa definitely started to get more into the game, creating some chances of its own. 

And now, the co-hosts are in the Round of 16 for the first time in men’s World Cup history and will face the winner of the Netherlands and Morocco in Houston. 

Here are my takeaways:

1. Fonzie Is Back But This Was Eustáquio’s Day

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In the 75th minute, Canada star Alphonso Davies, who has been out injured and recovering for his national team, finally entered the pitch and made his 2026 World Cup debut. His introduction immediately sparked a fire for Canada, who had been navigating this tournament without its versatile star.

But South Africa remained disciplined off the ball, and we were seemingly destined for extra time and possibly penalties. 

That’s until the 92nd minute when Eustáquio became a Canadian hero in Los Angeles. It was a great finish from the midfielder, and it came at such a dramatic time. At the final whistle, his entire squad rallied around him to congratulate him. It’s been an emotional few years for Eustáquio as he lost both his parents in the space of a year in 2024. 

A new Canadian hero. (Photo by Sarah Stier – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

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Eligible to play for Portugal, Eustáquio only committed to play for Canada back in 2019. Since then, he’s been an important figure for the Canadian side. 

Eligible to play for Portugal, Eustáquio only committed to play for Canada back in 2019. Since then, he’s been an important figure for the Concacaf side. I know exactly how it feels to lose both parents, so I am extremely happy for him, and I am sure his are looking from above smiling with pride as he scored the most important goal of his career. 

2. A Cagey Start Leads To Canadian History

After 30 minutes of action, both sides had only combined for 11 touches inside the box, per FotMob. And it didn’t grow after that. It was very cautious and apprehensive as this was a storyline of two teams not wanting to lose as opposed to gambling to win. 

Alphonso Davies returned to action. (Photo by Etienne LAURENT / AFP via Getty Images)

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I mentioned in my previous column the fact that this was uncharted waters for both as neither had been in a World Cup knockout stage situation before today. So it was clear that both managers wanted to be very specific about their gameplan. 

Canada had possession but nothing to show for it until the goal and South Africa was heavily relying on counter-attacking sequences. But it just didn’t have the build-up know-how. 

We got a winner in the end, but it wasn’t a classic. Canada recorded its first ever knockout stage win at the World Cup, becoming the first host nation to win a knockout stage game in regulation time since Brazil in 2014. Before this game, the last Concacaf nation to host the World Cup and win a knockout stage match was Mexico in 1986.

3. South Africa Changed Tactics Too Late

The plan from South Africa manager Hugo Broos, at least at the start, was very clear. It was reminiscent of its first match against another co-host, Mexico: to let the opposing side have the ball and just rely on quick, direct counters. 

But the issue is that strategy only works when you make your chances count. South Africa didn’t do that and even in the second half, when it gained more possession, it was too reactive and as a result, it paid the price.

It was a very brave performance but one that needed a more clinical touch. And when it fell behind in stoppage, it was going to be even harder. South Africa is now winless in eight games at the World Cup when conceding first.

4. South Africa’s Mbekezeli Mbokazi Is A Gem

(Photo by Jared C. Tilton – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

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At only 20 years old, the Chicago Fire defender has performed as one of the best center backs in the tournament and today, he saved his teammates on many occasions, including saving a Canadian attempt from the line as Jonathan David was pouncing after it. 

Despite the loss, the South African talent should be very proud of his World Cup. Mbokazi is a talent and one of the brightest young talents in MLS, and his (reportedly) new Chicago teammate Robert Lewandowski should be very impressed. After previously being tied to a move to Europe, something tells me that Mbokazi won’t be in MLS for much longer.

South Africa vs Canada Extended Highlights 2026 FIFA World Cup™ | Round of 32

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When USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino took out a laptop during the first hydration break of the friendly against Senegal, people wondered what would become of these pauses of play.

Is it a four-quarter game? Which team will it benefit?

“After the U.S.-Senegal game, there was this talk of people going to have the laptop and all that. And since the World Cup started, there’s been no discussion of any of that,” former USA head coach and FIFA World Cup NOW analyst Bob Bradley said.

“If the team’s going well, you let guys come over, talk to each other,” Bradley added. “You say a couple of things. And if there is a specific thing which has happened in a few games, then it’s easy to say, ‘Let’s change the way we press.’”

Thomas Tuchel coaches up England during a hydration break that took place during their win over Croatia. (Alex Pantling – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

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Multiple top managers in the tournament have said they are not fans of the hydration breaks. England’s Thomas Tuchel said “it interrupts and changes the identity of a football match much more than I thought.” Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni said, “The ‘four-period’ concept is real.” Portugal manager Roberto Martinez, though, called the break “revolutionary.”

Uruguay manager Marcelo Bielsa said the four-quarter nature of the game “alters the culturally constructed conception of how to interpret football.”

“They think it disrupts the game,” Bradley said. “They would say that in certain games it might allow them to do something tactically, but they don’t need to do that every game. They would still say that in extreme conditions you need to do it. But what they don’t like is that it breaks the momentum in the game, and they all feel it has changed the identity.”

Portugal’s Roberto Martinez has embraced the hydration breaks. (Michael Steele/Getty Images)

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How teams come out of the break in play and how the game changes is also a topic of debate. Bradley covered a potential trend of more action happening immediately after play resumes.

“Then there’s been a little bit of a pattern that, after hydration breaks, you could say that there’s been some chances and shots and goals,” Bradley said. “It’s hard to know what that means because there’s been more goals in the World Cup period.”

The teams who the pauses in the action may benefit the most? The underdogs. They get to change tactics and regain energy as they defend against the teams with the majority of possession.

“Scaloni made a point that actually it’s an advantage for the weaker teams, and that’s true,” Bradley said.

WHAT YOU SHOULD READ NEXT

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Jameis Winston traded the gridiron for the world’s game this offseason, taking on maybe the best summer job of all time.

The FOX Sports World Cup correspondent (former Heisman Trophy winner and current Giants quarterback) has marched with the Oranje Army. He’s honored tradition with Japanese fans. He’s marched a goat in a GOAT jersey through Kansas City. He’s been knighted. He’s even worn Lederhosen. He’s diving headfirst into other cultures and their passionate love for soccer – and inviting everyone to be a part of it. 

And he’s just getting started.

Here’s a look at some of the best moments from Winston’s World Cup journey:

Jameis Picks Up Dog Poop

You read that correctly.

Winston, who claimed he was not a “pooper scooper,” picked up the waste left behind by his friend, Bunda the Cockapoo, on the sidewalk with a bag. 

Meet Winston’s Newest Persona

Winston’s World Cup journey has seen a goat dressed as Messi and trips on the Netherlands’ Oranje Bus, but what about being one with Colombia’s music and dance culture? 

Ahead of Colombia’s group stage finale against Portugal at Miami Stadium, Winston took part in Colombia’s pregame music and dancing, and even dressed the part in a jersey and wig. 

As the group stages come to a close, Winston’s World Cup journey continues with the round of 32 matchups, which begin on Sunday. 

Winston Chats With Chris Richards’ Parents And Lucky Rubber Chicken

Anchoring the back line with captain Tim Ream, USA defender Chris Richards is officially on the pitch for his first World Cup after an injury in 2022. Winston had the chance to catch up with Richard’s parents about his journey and resilience at USA’s group stage match against Türkiye. 

“He followed his dream. It wasn’t our dream, and he went against that grain,” Richards’ father, Ken Richards, said. 

“It was hard missing out on the last World Cup due to an injury. This, just being here, just brought everything together. It was a full circle moment,” Richards’ mother, Carrie Richards, said.

And to close out their chat together, Winston brought out the lucky rubber chicken to do a ‘funky chicken’ dance in the stands.

Winston Downs a Beer With WWE Legend Sheamus

During his World Cup journey, Winston teamed up with WWE Superstar Sheamus to celebrate with soccer fans at a local pub. The duo was spotted engaging with the crowd and taking part in the lively pre-match festivities.

Drawing on his Irish heritage, Sheamus shared a piece of his culture by introducing Winston to a pint of Guinness. The video captures the two sharing a moment inside a pub, celebrating with local soccer fans ahead of the United States’ group-stage match against Türkiye.

Jameis “Man Of The People” Winston

Not only is Winston making a massive impact on fans at the World Cup, but he’s also carving out a brand-new reputation. Thanks to his larger-than-life personality, he is quickly becoming the ultimate “man of the people.”

He’s been connecting with fans at every turn, even handing over his No. 4 United States jersey to a local fan in the crowd.

“He just gifted me his jersey,” one fan said. “This is unbelievable. My grandma will hate me for that. I’m speechless. This is amazing. Whoever said the U.S. can’t do soccer? Go USA. Go America.”

If there’s one thing Winston has accomplished throughout this World Cup, it’s proving that he truly is a man of the people.

Inside Look at Winston’s Epic Week-Long Celebration with U.S. and Australian Fans

Winston’s World Cup journey continues as he sets out to assemble the loudest possible “USA” chants. The momentum started earlier in the week at a Seattle Mariners game, where he successfully rallied an entire section into full-voice chants.

He took that to the pre-game show, along with a countdown to the USA vs. Australia matchup. His goal was simple and that was to bring both fanbases together while highlighting what makes American and Australian soccer cultures special.

“My mission today is to allow Aussies to hear the USA chants from sea to shining sea,” Winston said.

The United States defeated Australia 2-0 on Friday night, and Winston matched the crowd’s energy throughout. As tensions rose following several hard challenges on the pitch, he kept the atmosphere lively by engaging in plenty of friendly trash talk with opposing fans.

“The Australian team…they just don’t know what to do with us,” Winston said. “They’re turning to violence. That’s what little cousins do when they can’t fight.”

Despite the result not going Australia’s way, Winston embraced the opportunity to connect with the Australian fans throughout the week. While Americans have their own traditions, few experiences topped Winston’s firsthand look at Australia’s famous shoey celebration.

Winston witnessed one of Australia’s most famous traditions firsthand as fans drank beer from a shoe.

“They showed us an amazing tradition in Australian culture,” Winston said. “I’m talking about drinking a brew from a shoe. You gotta love traditions.”

Ready For USA-Australia in Seattle

Emerald City is ready! Seattle has a legit claim at being one of the most soccer-crazed cities in the country. Winston joined the American Outlaws – the official supporters’ group of the U.S. teams – before Friday’s huge match. 

Seattle is awash in red, white, and blue and this city knows how to get behind a winner, having just recently celebrated the Super Bowl-winning Seahawks. 

Convinced Mariners Fans To Start “USA” Chants

Winston has now found himself at a Seattle Mariners game, where he was honored with the opportunity to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Next, he’ll turn his attention to soccer as the United States men’s national team prepares to face Australia at Seattle Stadium on Friday night.

Jameis Winston throws first pitch at Seattle Mariners game

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During his appearance at T-Mobile Park, Winston rallied the crowd into a loud chorus of “USA” chants. His mission was to create the biggest chant possible in Seattle, and by all accounts, he succeeded.

As Winston’s World Cup journey continues across the country, he is bringing fans together through a shared love of the game. The roaring “USA” chant at the Mariners game was another example of his ability to connect with sports fans wherever he goes.

That’s ‘Sir’ Jameis Winston To You

Now, it doesn’t seem likely that these England supporters actually have the royal authority to knight Jameis Winston, but listen: it’s the World Cup, everyone is having a good time, so, Sir Jameis Winston it is, even if just for a day.

Even if being knighted is an ephemeral act, that kit is not: Winston now has himself an England jersey with his name on it. A knight’s cuirass? Brigandine? Hauberk? His chain mail? Whichever it’s standing in for, it’s custom just for Jameis.

Catching The Perfect Angle of Lionel Messi’s Golazo

Lionel Messi has completely taken over Argentina’s opening FIFA World Cup match against Algeria, scoring not one, not two but three goals, completing the hat trick. He would have even had a fourth if he hadn’t been ruled offside earlier in the first half.

Jameis Winston had the best angle on Messi’s golazo and was seen celebrating with fans in Argentina’s section. He was also wearing a customized “Winston Argentina” jersey.

A Goat Dressed As Messi The GOAT

Tuesday ahead of Argentina’s World Cup opener against Algeria in Kansas City, Winston was getting pumped for the match. But he wasn’t alone. 

Winston had a pal with him, a literal real-life goat named Wesley, who was perfectly dressed for the occasion in a Lionel Messi jersey. This World Cup is expected to be Messi’s last, and because of that, it’s worth celebrating and savoring every moment the GOAT is on the pitch.

It’s not often to see a goat, much less one adorned in the trademark colors of a living legend, being at the center of attention ahead of one of the most anticipated games at the tournament. But Wesley dressed as Messi deserves all the love he was shown in KC.

Winning Over Fans By Helping Clean Dallas Stadium at the World Cup

Winston continues to be a national treasure when it comes to his involvement in the World Cup this year. He was spotted helping Japanese fans clean up the stands (a tradition that was spotlighted after the team’s first World Cup in 1998) following Japan’s thrilling 2-2 draw with the Netherlands on Sunday afternoon. 

The FOX Sports broadcast team, featuring Rob Stone, couldn’t contain their excitement for Winston as the feed shifted over to him in the crowd.

“Jameis Winston is working with the Japanese national team to clean up Dallas Stadium,” Stone said. “He’s a man of the people. Show me a number one draft pick in NFL history who takes out his own garbage bag and cleans up inside the stadium.

One of the Japanese fans later described how he was surprised to see an NFL quarterback joining the clean-up effort, but was appreciative on Winston joining the cherished tradition. 

Riding The Dutch ‘Oranje Army’ Bus

Jameis got up close and personal with one of the best fan bases in the world in Dallas, where the Netherlands and the always raucous “Oranje Army” know how to make an entrance.

Winston rode along with the Dutch fans in their “Oranje Army Bus” and admitted that “there’s nothing bigger than the Dutch Army.”

Witnessing USA’s Win With IShowSpeed

USA! USA! 

Jameis took in the sights and sounds at Los Angeles Stadium for the United States’ opening match Friday, which included meeting up with influencer IShowSpeed. Not a bad way to see one of the USA’s biggest wins ever at a World Cup.

Jameis Winston Witnesses USA’s CRAZY FIFA World Cup™ Win!

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For the first time in its history, the Canadian men’s national team is heading to the round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup.

Canada took down South Africa, 1-0, in the round of 32 on Sunday. After knocking on the doorstep of the net all match long, Stephen Eustáquio broke the scoreless tie when he put home a goal two minutes into stoppage time in the second half. Eustáquio’s goal secured the victory for Canada, giving Les Rouges a victory in their first-ever knockout stage match. 

Now, what’s next for Canada at the World Cup? Here is who Canada will play in the round of 16, and its potential path to making the World Cup final. 

Who Will Canada Play In The Round Of 16?

Canada will take on the winner of Monday’s round of 32 matchup between the Netherlands and Morocco in the round of 16. Canada’s round of 16 match will take place at Houston Stadium on Saturday, July 4, at 1 p.m. ET on FOX and FOX One. 

Who Could Canada Face In The Quarterfinals?

If Canada defeats the Netherlands or Morocco in the round of 16, it has four potential opponents it could face in the quarterfinals. France, Germany, Sweden and Paraguay are Canada’s potential opponents for the quarterfinals.

Germany battles Paraguay in the round of 32 on Monday (4:30 p.m. ET on FOX and the FOX One), while France takes on Sweden in its round of 32 matchup on Tuesday (5 p.m. ET on FOX and FOX One). France and Germany are ranked second and 12th, respectively, in FIFA’s rankings. 

If Canada reaches the quarterfinals, it’ll play at Boston Stadium on Thursday, July 9, at 4 p.m. ET on FOX and FOX One.

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Who Could Canada Face In The Semifinals?

There are eight possible opponents for Canada in the semifinals, including the USA. The other seven potential opponents for Canada in the semifinals are Portugal, Croatia, Spain, Austria, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Belgium and Senegal. The USA, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Belgium and Senegal make up one quadrant, while Portugal, Croatia, Spain and Austria are in the other quadrant.

If Canada reaches the semifinals, it’ll play at Dallas Stadium on Tuesday, July 14, at 3 p.m. ET on FOX and FOX One. 

Will Canada Play Another Match In Its Home Nation?

Canada will not play another match in its home nation. Canada lost the opportunity to play a game at Toronto or Vancouver when Switzerland defeated it in the final match of Group B play. Had Canada won that match, it would’ve played its round of 32 and round of 16 matches in Vancouver. 

The last match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup that will take place in Canada is in the round of 16. 

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U.S. World Cup Training Base (IRVINE, Calif.) — When was the last time the U.S. men’s national team won a knockout game at a World Cup?

Well, it’s been a while. At the 2002 tournament hosted by South Korea and Japan, the Americans beat rival Mexico in the round of 16 to advance to the quarterfinals, where they lost to eventual runners-up Germany. They haven’t made it that far since.

On Wednesday, the U.S. has a chance to make history when it faces Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32 in the San Francisco Bay Area. The Americans enter the knockout stage after winning Group D, though they’re also coming off a stunning 3-2 loss to Türkiye in which they conceded the game-winner in the 98th minute. The group was down and disappointed after the match, but has since had time to recharge and get back to it. 

There’s a renewed sense of urgency.

“It’s just more serious,” striker Folarin Balogun told reporters of the energy in the group. “It’s crunch time, it’s knockout football. You lose, you go home, so this is the business end, and this is the stage where, in my opinion, the big players step forward, and the big players carry the pressure and make things happen.”

(Photo by Jane Gershovich/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)

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Balogun is certainly one of those big players. He leads the team with two goals and helped force Australia’s own goal with his speed and relentless pressure. 

And he wants more.

He’s also probably talking about Christian Pulisic. The star winger played a role in the Americans’ first two goals against Paraguay before being forced off with a left calf injury that then ruled him out of the next match. Pulisic played 32 minutes against Türkiye and is expected back in the starting lineup this week.

Pulisic looked like himself at training — vocal, demanding and engaged, and constantly talking to and encouraging teammates during drills. “Good ball,” he shouted to Tim Weah before urging Joe Scally to “find somebody through,” pointing to where he wanted the pass played.

“I feel like I can feel the difference in the atmosphere,” Balogun said ahead of Sunday’s training session. “There’s a change in my mindset and mentality. Not that I wasn’t taking it seriously before, but you can just go into another gear because you know you want it more, and I don’t want the journey to end.”

After galvanizing the nation in the group stage and having sing-a-long sessions to “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” nothing will matter if the U.S. can’t make a run in the knockouts. 

“For me, it won’t mean much,” Balogun said. “The objective is to win. I’m not somebody who would look back and think we’ve done well. That’s not really my mentality. I’m just looking forward to Wednesday and looking forward to going out there and winning.”

The U.S. hasn’t beaten a European opponent since a 1-0 friendly win over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Dec. 18, 2021. Before that, its previous victory over a European side came against Iceland on Jan. 31, 2016 — two months before Pulisic made his national team debut.

Since the Bosnia and Herzegovina win in 2021, the Americans have played 12 matches against European opponents without another victory, and no one on the team seems to have a clear explanation as to why. They’ve come close, including a 2-1 loss to Germany in a World Cup tune-up match they were capable of winning, and last week’s heartbreaking group-stage finale defeat to Türkiye.

(Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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Now they have another opportunity. A win on Wednesday would not only keep the U.S. alive in its home World Cup but would also end a frustrating drought.

“I think we’re a different team now,” winger Sergino Dest explained Sunday. “We’ve improved a lot in the last couple of years. I think we showed it in the first couple of games in this tournament. [Bosnia and Herzegovina] also know it’s going to be a really tough game. It’s not going to be easy.”

Added Balogun on the idea of ending that losing streak and winning a knockout game: “From my personal experience, the best way to break history is not to think about what hasn’t been done, but think about what needs to be done in order to progress. And that’s just win.”

Four years ago, the U.S. made it to the round of 16, where it was outclassed by the Netherlands in a 3-1 defeat. Dest said there’s not much to take from that result now, other than how much this group has grown. The team is more mature and experienced, plus players are riding the high of winning the group and experiencing unprecedented fan support.

“I feel like everybody is really confident,” Dest said. “We just have a lot of belief that we can do it.”

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Monday will be a full slate of knockout games at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with heavyweights Brazil, Germany and Netherlands all looking to take big steps to the final. 

The day opens in Houston when five-time champion Brazil takes on a Japan team that performed well in the group stages and which also won a matchup between the two teams in October. 

In the day’s second game, Germany is heavily favored over Paraguay in Boston, but it might be tricky for Die Mannschaft as the South American side has been defending well and hasn’t conceded a goal in its last two games. 

The final game of the day is a surprisingly strong matchup for the round of 32 when two top-10 teams in the FIFA World Rankings meet in Monterrey with the Netherlands facing African powerhouse Morocco, which made the semifinals in 2022 and has only continued to impress since then. 

Here is everything you need to know for Monday, June 29 at the World Cup. 

When: Monday, June 29, 1 p.m. ET

Where: Houston

TV: FOX

Stream: Watch three days on FOX One

Brazil and Japan square off in a round of 32 matchup at Houston Stadium on Monday in a game that features two teams who did not lose a match in the group stage. 

Brazil won Group C, with seven points from wins over Haiti and Scotland, along with an opening draw against Morocco. Carlo Ancelotti’s finished atop the group only by goal differential over Morocco. 

Despite winning the group, there are concerns that this Brazilian team is not where it needs to be to make a deep run. After the draw with Morocco, Ancelotti even went as far as apologizing that his team did not play better. The win over Haiti was not very convincing and in the win over Scotland, Brazil benefited from very poor Scottish mistakes. 

Brazil’s Vinícius Júnior scores TWICE before the break against Scotland | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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The best news for Brazil is that Vinícius Junior has lived up to the high expectations that were on him leading into the tournament. The Real Madrid attacker became the fifth Brazilian player to score in all three group stage games.  

Brazil also saw Neymar, 34, make a 15-minute appearance off the bench against Scotland to end a 981-day absence from the team. Neymar is available for the knockouts, but it remains to be seen how much Ancelotti will rely on him.

Japan finished second in Group F behind the Netherlands but ahead of Sweden and Tunisia. It was not perfect, but Hajime Moriyasu’s team impressed for long stretches in each game. In the 2-2 draw with the Netherlands, Japan was able to fight for two equalizers, including one in the 88th minute from Daichi Kamada. After a blowout win over Tunisia, Japan fought for a 1-1 draw with Sweden. 

GROUP F REACTION Netherlands wins group, faces Morocco, Japan-Brazil in Round of 32 ️

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The toughest challenge for Japan at this World Cup has been injuries. Before the tournament, multiple starters, including Wataru Endo, were not available for selection due to injuries sustained in the spring. At this tournament, midfielder Takefusa Kubo suffered a knee injury and is questionable to return. 

The history between the two teams greatly favors Brazil, which has won six of its seven all-time meetings with Japan with a score differential of 21-5.

Recent history, however, favors Japan with the team’s only win over Brazil coming in the last match between the two in October 2025. In that game at Tokyo’s Ajinomoto Stadium, Brazil had a 2-0 lead at halftime, but Japan made a ferocious comeback that featured two assists from Junya Ito and a winning goal from Ayase Ueda.

Brazil is favored in this game as it is one of the most historically powerful national teams with a record five World Cup trophies in its collection. Meanwhile, Japan has never won a knockout game in the tournament. But this game could be closer than people expect, given the way Japan has been playing in recent years and the confidence the team has in the group stages. 

Player To Watch

The Real Madrid attacker lived up to the lofty expectations placed on him as Brazil’s best offensive player at a World Cup. He is key to Brazil’s hopes of making a deep run and in the group stages, he was electric. When Brazil was trailing Morocco, Vinícius showed up and delivered an equalizer that was one of the best goals in the tournament’s group stage. 

Against Japan, a lot is riding on his shoulders. If Vinícius plays well, Japan will likely have a tough day. If the 25-year-old native of Rio de Janeiro does not, Japan might be able to pull off the upset. 

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When: Monday, June 29, 4:30 p.m. ET

Where: Boston

TV: FOX

Stream: Watch three days free on FOX One

After failing to get out of group play in 2022 and 2018, Germany returns to the knockout stages with the hopes of making a long run in pursuit of its fifth World Cup trophy. Standing in its way will be a Paraguay team that rebounded from an ugly opening loss to the United States to fight its way to a win over Türkiye and a draw with Australia. 

The teams will meet at Boston Stadium in Monday’s second game of the day.

Germany has not been among the world’s elite teams since winning the World Cup in 2014. The team was grouped in the last two World Cups and its last two European Championships have also been unsuccessful with a round of 16 loss in 2021 and a quarterfinal loss in 2024. 

Germany’s Deniz Undav Subs In And Scores Two CLUTCH Goals to Complete Comeback vs Ivory Coast 🇩🇪

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The signs for this German team are mixed. Die Mannschaft carried an impressive 11-match winning streak into its final group stage game against Ecuador but suffered a surprising 2-1 loss, albeit with a heavily rotated squad. 

Head coach Julian Nagelsmann has his team playing with a smooth and attacking style, driven by midfielders Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz, with Kai Havertz serving as the primary attacking focal point.

Meanwhile, there has been nothing pretty about Paraguay’s road to this point. Its two results, a 1-0 win over Türkiye and the 0-0 draw with Australia, have been hard-fought grinds. Against Türkiye, Paraguay scored with a surprising early goal from Matias Galarza but Miguel Almiron was sent off in the first half. La Albirroja was only able to win after sitting deep and defending with 10 men. 

In these last two games, Gustavo Alfaro’s team has been outshot 44-14 but has not conceded a goal due to a combination of outstanding defense and luck. Against Germany, Paraguay will once again sit in a low block and look for occasional counterattacks for set-piece opportunities. Paraguay would be very satisfied to see the game go to penalties. 

Player To Watch

Germany’s tall center forward is the key to unlocking Paraguay’s low block, as he can score in the air and in tight spaces. The Arsenal attacker was not particularly effective in the recent games against the Ivory Coast and Ecuador, although he scored two goals against Curaçao, who was also sitting deep. Look for Germany to try to get Havertz involved early and often. If Germany can muster a quick goal, Paraguay will have to come out of its shell — which is not something it wants to do. 

When: Monday, June 29, 9 p.m. ET

Where: Monterrey

TV: FOX

Stream: Watch three days free on FOX One

In one of the most anticipated matchups in the round of 32, Morocco and the Netherlands square off at Monterrey Stadium in Mexico on Monday night. 

For the Netherlands, it impressively won its Group F with seven points from wins over Sweden and Tunisia along with a draw. But it turns out to not be much of a prize, as the Dutch were rewarded with a challenging matchup against a Morocco team that made the semifinals in 2022 and now enters this game ranked seventh in the FIFA World Rankings, one ahead of the Netherlands. 

‘We’re Here To Go All The Way’ 🇳🇱 Clarence Seedorf REACTS to Netherlands’ STATEMENT Win vs Sweden

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Ronald Koeman’s team has a strong attack that is led by winger Cody Gakpo and Brian Brobbey, who each have two goals in the tournament. The Dutch have also been very strong on set pieces, with their immensely talented central defense tandem of Virgil van Dijk and Jan Paul van Hecke each scoring a goal. 

If Morocco is going to pull off the win, it will need to defend well against set pieces in one-on-one positions from out wide. 

On the attack, the Atlas Lions will continue to rely heavily on forward Ismael Saibari, who scored in each of the three group stage games, and Real Madrid winger Brahim Díaz, who also notched two assists in the opening three games.

In an expanded World Cup with a new round of 32, it is surprising to see two teams this strong in the first knockout game. The Netherlands are unbeaten in 15 World Cup matches, when not including penalties. Morocco is unbeaten in 31 matches overall. Both teams have realistic expectations of being in the Final in three weeks. 

Player To Watch

The Sunderland center forward does not boast the resume of a center forward for a World Cup contender. But Brobbey is a great fit for this Netherlands team. He scored three goals in the group stages and has displayed a lot of great chemistry with his team’s wingers and midfielders. If he is on, he is going to have chances against Morocco, and he is one of his team’s big keys to advancing to the round of 16.

Messi Hat Trick, Haaland’s debut, Vozinha the Best Story? FIFA World Cup Now Group Play Superlatives

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The 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States is the first-ever edition of the tournament to be co-hosted by three nations — the next World Cup will be the second, and the first edition to play on three different continents, with games set to be played in six different countries to celebrate the tournament’s centenary.

Here is everything you need to know about the 2030 FIFA World Cup, including locations, hosts and dates:

Who Is Hosting The 2030 FIFA World Cup?

The 2030 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by three nations: Morocco, Portugal and Spain. This marks the second time in the tournament’s history that it has been hosted by three nations, with the 2026 World Cup being the first.

Morocco, Portugal and Spain were officially ratified as the co-hosts of the 2030 FIFA World Cup on Dec. 11, 2024, following a bidding process that started on Oct. 2020 and concluded on Oct. 2023 with the three nations as the sole bidder. Morocco wasn’t originally part of the bid, hoping to host the tournament as the sole host, but joined in March 2023.

(Photo by Harold Cunningham – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

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When Is The 2030 FIFA World Cup?

The 2030 FIFA World Cup will take place from June 8, 2030 to July 21, 2030. The 44-day stretch will make it the longest World Cup ever, up from 39 days in 2026 due to the multi-continental travel required for the 100-year anniversary celebrations.

World Cup Anniversary Matches

The 2030 FIFA World Cup will mark the tournament’s 100th anniversary. To celebrate the centenary edition of the tournament, FIFA awarded three separate opening matches to Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay as a nod to the first-ever FIFA World Cup in 1930.

Uruguay was the first-ever host and winner of the FIFA World Cup, and the celebratory match will be played at Estadio Centenario in Montevideo, the same stadium built for the 1930 tournament. Argentina will host a match at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires as the runner-up of the 1930 tournament, and Paraguay will host a match at Estadio Osvaldo Dominguez Dibb in Asunción, where CONMEBOL has its headquarters.

(Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

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2030 World Cup Locations

The 2030 FIFA World Cup is expected to be played in 21 stadiums, across 18 cities and six countries. While the official host sites have yet to be formally approved ahead of the December 2026 deadline, there is a list of finalist cities and stadiums.

Here is the full list of finalist cities and stadiums for the 2030 FIFA World Cup:

Uruguay (1 City, 1 Stadium)

• Montevideo: Estadio Centenario

Argentina (1 City, 1 Stadium)

• Buenos Aires: Estadio Monumental

Paraguay (1 City, 1 Stadium)

• Asunción: Estadio Osvaldo Domínguez Dibb

Portugal (2 Cities, 3 Stadiums)

• Lisbon: Estádio da Luz and Estádio José Alvalade
• Porto: Estádio do Dragão

Morocco (6 Cities, 6 Stadiums)

• Casablanca: Hassan II Stadium
• Rabat: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium
• Marrakesh: Grand Stade de Marrakech
• Agadir: Adrar Stadium
• Fez: Fez Stadium
• Tangier: Ibn Batouta Stadium

Spain (8 Cities, 10 Stadiums)

• Madrid: Santiago Bernabéu and Cívitas Metropolitano
• Barcelona: Spotify Camp Nou and RCDE Stadium
• Seville: Estadio de La Cartuja
• Bilbao: San Mamés
• San Sebastián: Real Arena/Anoeta Stadium
• Zaragoza: La Romareda
• Las Palmas: Estadio Gran Canaria
• Valencia: Nou Mestalla
• Vigo: Abanca-Balaídos

Where Is The 2030 World Cup Final?

The site of the 2030 FIFA World Cup final hasn’t been awarded yet. Official tournament locations must be submitted and approved by 2026, but the location of the final may be announced later than that. 

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Stephen Eustaquio scored in the second minute of second-half stoppage time, and Canada beat South Africa 1-0 on Sunday for its first knockout match victory in a World Cup.

A tense match at SoFi Stadium appeared to be headed for extra time until Eustáquio — who plays professionally for Los Angeles FC several miles away — put a stunning volley from outside the penalty area into the bottom corner of Ronwen Williams’ net.

Co-host Canada hung on with strong defensive play in the final minutes of the tournament’s first round of 32 match. Coach Jesse Marsch’s team advanced to face the Netherlands or Morocco in Houston on Saturday, July 4.

Marsch gathered his players in a huddle after the whistle and gave a spirited speech, declaring, “You guys are Canadian heroes! Canadian heroes for the future children of this country who play this sport. This sport has a big future because of you guys. You should be so proud of who you are. You should be so proud of this game.”

Canada played its first three matches at home in Toronto and Vancouver while appearing in only its third World Cup, but was forced to become the first World Cup host to play on the road when it lost 2-1 to Switzerland last Wednesday.

The Canadians were still the clear crowd favorite in the Los Angeles area between their traveling fans and thousands of supportive locals, including several in Eustáquio’s LAFC shirt who couldn’t have imagined the day they were about to enjoy.

“We never stopped believing,” Eustáquio said. “And I think the goal is really something that we deserved.”

Williams made five saves for South Africa, which played with remarkable heart while hanging in until the final moments in search of another historic win for the team known as Bafana Bafana. Canada had the best chances all day, but underdog South Africa stayed firm defensively and created a handful of excellent chances itself.

“We lost the game because there was a lack of power and speed in our team when I compare that with our opponent,” South Africa coach Hugo Broos said. “We had a difficult game, certainly. But when we look back, we can be fairly satisfied with what we did. We are disappointed, and we wanted to win, but we don’t have to be too much disappointed. What we did was good, and I’m very happy and proud of my team.”

Canada finally broke through when Alistair Johnston’s long pass into the box was cleared directly into the path of Eustáquio, who chested it down, struck it purely and started to celebrate almost immediately.

Canada’s Stephen Eustáquio scores goal in stoppage time to advance to Round of 16 | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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After finishing second in their respective groups, both South Africa and Canada were playing for their nations’ first knockout victories at a World Cup when they opened knockout play with the only match of the day.

Canada got a boost in the 75th minute when star defender Alphonso Davies came on for his first World Cup action. The playmaking Bayern Munich defender missed group play after injuring his hamstring last month for the third time this year, but finally returned in the same stadium where he tore a knee ligament in March 2025 in CONCACAF Nations League play.

Davies immediately made the best pass of the day to set up Promise David for a golden chance, but the forward hit it wide.

South Africa reached the knockout rounds for the first time with a 1-0 victory over South Korea last Wednesday, arguably the highest moment in Bafana Bafana’s checkered international history.

South Africa vs Canada Extended Highlights 2026 FIFA World Cup™ | Round of 32

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Reporting by The Associated Press.

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LOS ANGELES STADIUM — At least one American is headed to the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Canada coach Jesse Marsch, who was an assistant coach with the U.S. men’s national team when the Stars and Stripes reached the same stage under Bob Bradley in 2010, on Sudnay became the first manager at this summer’s tournament to win a knockout round game, as his Reds topped South Africa 1-0 on a 91st minute strike by veteran midfielder Stephen Eustáquio.

Canada’s Stephen Eustáquio scores goal in stoppage time to advance to Round of 16 | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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The Canadians will now play for a place in the quarterfinals against the winner of Monday’s round of 32 contest between three-time World Cup runner-up Netherlands and Morocco, which reached the semis four years ago in Qatar.

But Canada’s history-making run — they’d never advanced from group play or even won a World Cup game before this summer — in a competition that the country is co-hosting along with the United States and Canada didn’t begin with glory.

Expected to beat plucky Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 12 in the first World Cup match played on Canadian soil, Marsch’s team settled for a come-from-behind 1-1 tie in Toronto that helped stop them from topping a group that also contained Qatar and Switzerland.

(Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

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Now the Bosnians stand between the USA and a place alongside their northern neighbors in the round of 16. Mauricio Pochettino’s side faces the Golden Lilies on Wednesday in the San Francisco Bay Area. It’s a potential trap game for Pochettino’s side — not that Marsch, the former Premier League and Bundesliga boss who was passed over for the U.S. job when Gregg Berhalter was rehired in 2023 — is at all concerned about how his mom nation fares.

“Doug, I appreciate your question,” he told me when I asked what Pochettino’s side had to be wary of against Bosnia to advance. “But I don’t really care.”

That didn’t stop the Princeton University graduate and former Chicago Fire captain, who made two international appearances for the U.S. during his playing days, from weighing in. 

“It’s up to the U.S. to figure out, and they can learn from the matches that Bosnia played,” he continued. “I know a couple of players on their team, and Bosnia is a group of fighters, so they were not easy to play against.

“I was very complimentary of them after the game. I thought we could have been better in the match, but I think that whoever they play, they will give a really hard match.”

Sunday’s match was played in Southern California because Canada finished second in Group B. All three of Canada’s first round contests were played north of the border. The win over the Qataris and loss to the Swiss took place in Vancouver. Sunday marked the first time a World Cup host had ever played a game in another country other than their own.

“It’s a shame we couldn’t do it in Vancouver, right in front of our fans,” Marsch said. “Nonetheless, I think you saw the team’s character, quality, mentality, togetherness. “It’s a pleasure to be their coach.”

(Photo by Jared C. Tilton – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

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Marsch had vowed not to speak about the American squad after several of his previous comments caught fire, not the least of which was his revelation on the eve of the 2026 World Cup opener that he and Bradley “had to beg” the U.S. players to sing the Star Spangled Banner before games.  

“These guys,” he said, referring to the Canadian players, “sing the national anthem, belt it out to the top of their lungs. Because they want to show the country how proud they are to be here, to be Canadians and to represent what Canada is.”

U.S. great and current FOX Sports analyst Clint Dempsey, a member of Bradley’s 2010 squad who scored against England during that 2010 World Cup as the Americans won the group over the Three Lions, quickly clapped back.

“I can’t take this guy too seriously,” said Dempsey, the USA’s all-time joint top scorer with 57 goals, same as Landon Donovan. “When the national anthem happened, I wasn’t someone who normally would sing. I put my hand over my heart, and I’d pray to the good man upstairs.

Added Dempsey: “I’m not going to take advice from someone who switched to the other side and is singing another country’s national anthem.”

Following the biggest win in Canadian men’s soccer history, Marsch said he is “proud to be American.”

“Sometimes I know that Americans get a certain rap for being boisterous, for being arrogant, for being outwardly vocal, and I know that, in many ways, that does describe me, or at least people love to describe me that way,” he said.

“But again, I don’t give a s***.”

history for canada

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This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.

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The knockout stage is almost here. As the final group-stage matches wrap up this weekend, several nations are still fighting to stay alive while others have already secured their place in the bracket. Could we see some stars get valuable rest?

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