B/R 2026 World Cup Staff Predictions for Every Round of 32 Game

And now it's win or go home.

The field is cut down to 32 teams at 2026 FIFA World Cup as the world's best now enter single-elimination matches to survive and advance. While group stage may have seem diluted due to the added teams, this round will not, featuring mouth-watering matchups that will see some of the world's top soccer be disappointed early.

So, which teams are moving on?

The B/R Football staff got together provide picks for every single game from the Round of 32.

South Africa vs. Canada

Ercin Erturk/Anadolu via Getty Images

Jonathan David

Match Date: Sunday, June 28

Time: 3 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

While Canada will be miffed that they couldn't top Group B to remain in their home country until potentially the quarterfinals, they'll like their chances against South Africa in the Round of 32.

South Africa, though, won't be a pushover. They showed as much en route to a surprising second-place finish in Group A. Their win over South Korea last time out could be the blueprint for how they hope to progress in the knockouts: be defensively solid and lighting quick in transition. For Jesse Marsch's Canada team that prefers to press and attack on the break themselves, the tactical battle in Los Angeles will be fascinating.

Even so, Canada's talent advantage may be too much for South Africa to overcome. With a plethora of quality forwards, including Juventus striker Jonathan David, and the possibility of seeing Alphonso Davies feature, Canada's attack should have enough to sneak into the Round of 16.

Prediction: 2-1, Canada

- Joe Lowery

Canada have looked strong, and they were unfortunate not to have topped their group after Switzerland escaped a late barrage to win their last game. 

Jesse Marsch has instilled a relentless approach in the team — they actually lead the tournament in expected goals and touches in the opposition penalty area, according to FotMob — and the plan seems to be to overwhelm opponents with their energy levels.

Marsch's team will be making their first trip south of the border in the competition, and while they should still have the majority of support in Los Angeles, it will be interesting to see how that approach translates when it isn't being raucously backed by the sea of red that has witnessed their group games.

South Africa have been less convincing, getting well beaten by Mexico before a draw and win over Czechia and South Korea, respectively, in two tightly contested games. 

In the Mexico defeat in particular, they also put themselves in trouble with some ill-advised passes around their own penalty area, and a Canada team that has been effective in disrupting opponents' build-up sequences could find joy in those moments.

Prediction: Canada win 2-0

- Calum Rogers

Unless you're from either nation, this is perhaps the most shrug-inducing matchup of the round of 32.

It's not exactly the fault of the two teams involved, but a meeting between a Canada team ranked 32nd by FIFA and a South Africa team ranked 54th doesn't exactly scream "World Cup knockout game."

But here we are, and despite the lack of obvious fireworks, there is still plenty to like about this fixture. 

Canada will be leaving its snug home-nation confines and heading to Los Angeles, adding an interesting wrinkle to the Maple Leafs' bid to continue through the competition. A mixed bag of results saw them scrape through the group stage, but a 6-0 win over Qatar shows that firepower does exist in Jesse Marsch's ranks.

Meanwhile, South Africa will still be buzzing after a 1-0 win over Korea Republic in its final group-stage fixture that sealed its path to the knockouts. 

It's safe to say few predicted Bafana Bafana to get to this stage after a 2-0 loss to Mexico in the opening game of Group A, which saw them finish with nine men. But they demonstrated extraordinary tenacity, resulting in the nation's first appearance at this stage of the competition. 

It's also new territory for Canada, so history will be made one way or another regardless of which team triumphs. But Canada seems to have the edge, if not for the likelihood of more fans being in attendance, but for scoring eight in the tournament so far compared to South Africa's two.

- Leo Collis

Brazil vs. Japan

Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images

Vinicius Junior

Match Date: Monday, June 29

Time: 1 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

Japan's reward for finishing second in a difficult Group F? Playing Brazil in the Round of 32. 

Despite Brazil's early stumble against Morocco, resounding wins over Haiti and Scotland pushed Carlo Ancelotti's team to the top of Group C. Even with Raphinha's injury, Bournemouth youngster Rayan stepped in seamlessly on the right wing to close out group play. His balanced approach on both sides of the ball made life easier for Matheus Cunha and Vinicius Jr., and maybe even made Brazil scarier as a whole. Toss in Neymar's return to the field and you have a team that could go all the way.

Japan, of course, won't be overawed. That opening draw with the Netherlands illustrates their ability to play against talented attacking teams — and with an ability to absorb pressure in a deep block or create chances with the ball, they won't be an easy out.

Prediction: 2-1, Brazil

- Joe Lowery

Stylistically, this is a brilliant match-up. 

Both teams are prone to playing in a way I would call 'entertainingly reckless'. There's ambition, a hint of madness, and attacking numbers flying forward whenever possible.

I think the wide areas are going to be important in this one. Much has been made of Brazil's fullbacks being weaker than we're used to seeing, with Danilo and Douglas Santos both looking beatable. They feel built for this Japan team to exploit. 

It'll also be interesting to see how Ayase Ueda will match up to the physicality of Gabriel and Marquinhos. His sharp movement is going to need to find the gaps in the Selecao's backline if Japan are to sustain pressure. 

Vinicius Junior must maintain his form for Brazil to escape this one unharmed. I'm backing him to do so.

Prediction: Brazil 3-2 Japan

-Nick Akerman

Brazil has come into this tournament with high expectations. After a disappointing opening game draw to Morocco, and two bounce back with wins vs. Haiti and Scotland, Brazil looks ready for a deep tournament.

Although it won't be easy with Japan looming in the background. 

While the Samurai Blue finished second in Group F, besides their 4-0 thumping of Tunisia, they never looked convincing against the Netherlands or Sweden. 

Nevertheless, it's the knockout round, and anything can happen. Unfortunately for Japan, Brazil looks like a team with enough attacking quality to get to the next round.

Prediction: 3-1, Brazil

- Alex Windley

Germany vs. Paraguay

Jussi Eskola/Soccrates/Getty Images

Florian Wirtz

Match Date: Monday, June 29

Time: 4:30 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

Germany's ceiling is an interesting one to analyse in this competition. 

The 7-1 win over Curacao probably got people a little bit too excited after their opening match. The battling 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast was much more a test of their mettle, while defeat to Ecuador via the same scoreline was disappointing, especially because Julian Nagelsmann didn't rotate as heavily as many people anticipated.

So with that, a close to full-strength side has proven to be beatable by a team who couldn't score against Curacao or Ivory Coast. Enter Paraguay. A team that, like Ecuador, scored just twice en route to qualification for the knockouts. The 4-1 hammering against the USMNT will show Nagelsmann the way here. 

Germany just need to do what they do best; get numbers forward, pass the ball quickly and make sure Kai Havertz or Denis Undave are planted in the box. It should be a simple win.

Prediction: Germany 3-0 Paraguay

-Nick Akerman

These two teams enter the knockout phase of the tournament with vastly different momentum.

Germany began the World Cup with a resounding win over Curacao and bested a dangerous Ivory Coast team before falling to Ecuador to end their group stage slate. Paraguay had the opposite experience: they were battered by the United States to open the group stage before gutting out a crucial win over Turkiye and playing to an important draw with Australia.

Still, despite the disparate form, it's hard to look past Germany's advantage in this Round of 32 clash. With a balanced attack and a strong spine built on Jonathan Tah's elite play at center back, there simply aren't many holes in Julian Nagelsmann's outfit. Paraguay will try to keep space compact between their defensive lines, but it won't be enough to see them through to the Round of 16.

Prediction: 2-0, Germany

- Joe Lowery

Germany came through Group E as winners, but there should be concerns about how much further they can progress. 

Julian Nagelsmann's team was fortunate to beat Ivory Coast in their second game, with their opponents wasting multiple good openings before Germany turned the tide late, and the 2-1 loss against Ecuador on Thursday further exposed a couple of notable weaknesses.

Against Ivory Coast and Ecuador, Germany struggled to stop counterattacks and didn't create much separation in possession. Their ability to manage those issues against a Paraguay team that will almost certainly look to adopt a similar approach will be vital in avoiding an upset.

Germany's other significant concern is goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. He looked indecisive for Ecuador's winning goal and had a couple of nervy moments outside of that, and Nagelsmann may be left with a decision to make.

All that being said, it's hard to shake the memories of Paraguay's no-show against the United States in their opening game. They've earned a couple of hard-fought results against Türkiye and Australia since, but Germany should still have too much for them.

Prediction: Germany win 2-0

- Calum Rogers

Netherlands vs. Morocco

Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images

Cody Gakpo

Match Date: Monday, June 29

Time: 9 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

This game should be one of the best in the Round of 32. 

With 10 goals across their three group stage games, the Netherlands' attack has been flying. The addition of a true striker in Sunderland's Brian Brobbey has helped create space for the rest of the forward line — especially Cody Gakpo, who's been a real threat at this World Cup so far.

Morocco, for their part, have looked like one of the most explosive teams at this summer's tournament. With a varied attack that features PSG's Achraf Hakimi racing forward down the right wing and soon-to-be Bayern Munich man Ismael Saibari crashing the box from the center, they've been a hard team to stop. Oh, and keep an eye on 18-year-old starlet Ayyoub Bouaddi, a midfielder drawing interest from the best teams in the world.

Expect a back-and-forth affair, though Morocco's quality will give them the edge.

Prediction: 3-2, Morocco

- Joe Lowery

The battle of the flying right-backs; one who used to play for Real Madrid and one who will do soon. Achraf Hakimi and Denzel Dumfries may fail to directly clash during this match, but their influences are key to either side winning.

It tells the story of these two nations' recent history that Morocco are probably slight favourites. Ismael Saibari must be restored to the striker role if they're to capitalise, as pushing him back into the No. 10 slot didn't work against Haiti. Saibari is excellent at causing chaos, meaning he needs to be the man occupying Virgil van Dijk. That should be one hell of a battle.

This feels like a real pick 'em. Brobbey's arrival into the team has elevated the Dutch, providing a focal point that can deal the knockout blow. Morocco's wobbles in the win over Haiti just has me wondering if they'll be able to deal with everything Ronald Koeman's side has to offer.

Prediction: Netherlands 2-1 Morocco (AET)

-Nick Akerman

The Netherlands is, arguably, the best nation never to have won a World Cup.  Looking at their group stage performance, perhaps this is their year?

Hypotheticals aside, they have to get past a very good Moroccan team that nearly took down Brazil in the group stage. 

Playing a brand of football that's electric, fast-paced, and difficult to defend, the Dutch will have their hands full.

However, the Dutch aren't any slouches either. With the likes of Brian Brobbey leading the line and a strong defense featuring Micky van de Ven and Virgil Van Dijk, it won't be easy for the Moroccans. 

That said, though this match should be fairly evenly matched, the Dutch may eventually pull it off.

Prediction: 3-2 Netherlands

- Alex Windley

Côte d'Ivoire vs. Norway

Howard Smith/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images

Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard

Match Date: Tuesday, June 30

Time: 1 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

This is a really tough match to call. 

Norway's heavy rotation in the defeat to France has provided Erling Haaland and the first-team squad proper time to rest up for what will be an intense match against a very good side. Côte d'Ivoire had to battle to get to this point, but did so valiantly with wins over Ecuador and Curacao, either side of a late defeat to Germany. 

They have real pedigree, and perhaps more matchwinners than the Europeans, whose results depend on whether Haaland and Martin Odegaard are in form. That point will decide the game for me, because I see both teams creating plenty of chances. 

Côte d'Ivoire's frontline is proving pretty wasteful, despite some electric play, with Amad Diallo, Yan Diomande and Ange-Yoan Bonny lacking end product. That's the one thing we know Haaland has in abundance - and so it may prove.

Prediction: Côte d'Ivoire 1-2 Norway

-Nick Akerman

Côte d'Ivoire's road to the Round of 32 was an interesting one, with Les Elephants beating Ecuador and Curacao to finish second in the group. They did this all while playing a brand of football that can be dangerous in the knockout stage. With an attacking front line that's potent on the counter, they could be a nightmare match-up for anyone.

On the flip side, Norway has its own attacking nightmare in Erling Haaland. Any defense should be terrified, particularly when there's so much at stake in the knockout rounds. Currently sitting 5th in the Golden Boot race, the Man City striker is sure to add to his tally in the Round of 32.

That said, this game could come down to who can defend best.

In the end, this will be a tight one.

Prediction: 2-1 Norway

- Alex Windley

Both teams earned six points from their respective group stages, but one team was much more convincing than the other.

Norway was able to rest key starters in the final group game, whereas Côte d'Ivoire had to go full strength to confirm a place in the knockouts.

More than anything, that should be the factor that decides this matchup. A fresh Erling Haaland against a weary Elephants backline could be a recipe for disaster.

Côte d'Ivoire might keep this close for a stretch and could even nick a goal, but as the match goes on, Norway will maintain the intensity and prove too much for their African opponents.  

Prediction: Côte d'Ivoire 1 - 3 Norway

- Leo Collis

France vs. Sweden

Huang Zongzhi/Xinhua via Getty Images

Kylian Mbappe

Match Date: Tuesday, June 30

Time: 5 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

There's very little jeopardy in this one, for me. 

France are my favourites for the tournament, the team that has so much firepower and squad depth that the second string would probably get to the latter stages. Sweden lost 5-1 to the Netherlands just over a week ago and now they have to contend with Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise and the others? Good luck.

Les Bleus do have the considerable threat of Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres to contend with, but their partnership looked a little uneven in the group stage. Should they fail to get on the ball, there won't be much hope of a breakthrough. I'm going for an easy win.

Prediction: France 4-0 Sweden

-Nick Akerman

Is there any team at this tournament who inspires more fear in their opponents than France? After the group stage, the answer to that question is a resounding "no".

In the blink of an eye, France turned on the attacking charm in the second half of their tournament opener against Senegal and blew away the opposition. Then they cruised past Iraq and a rotated Norway team. Sweden have attacking talent (see: Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres, and others still), but they don't have horses to hang in a shootout with France. Plus, that this Swedish team conceded five goals against the Netherlands looms large headed into the most talented team in the Round of 32. 

Between Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembelé, and Michael Olise, there is no stronger trio at the World Cup. It's simply too difficult to imagine Sweden putting a stop to them.

Prediction: 3-1, France

- Joe Lowery

It's been tough to get a read on Sweden. A 5-1 victory over Tunisia in their opening game was followed by a stunning defeat by the same scoreline against the Netherlands, while their 1-1 draw against Japan was a credible effort and result against another strong opponent.

In theory, they have the players to trouble any top side on the counterattack. Viktor Gyökeres and Alexander Isak could be a dangerous duo when given space to run into, and Senegal's Nicolas Jackson did show in France's opening game that they can allow opportunities to athletic forwards.

The biggest problem for Sweden, though, is at the other end of the pitch. The defeat against the Netherlands exposed some significant defensive issues, and now starting centre-back Isak Hien has been ruled out for the rest of the tournament after suffering an injury against Japan.

That's not ideal timing, as France's attack is sizzling right now. Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé are both joint-second on the tournament's goalscoring charts with four goals each, and no other team has more than one player in the top 10. 

For Sweden to have a chance here, both Mbappé and Dembélé will likely need to have a tough day, and that's just incredibly tough to imagine at this point.

Prediction: France win 4-1

- Calum Rogers

Mexico vs. Ecuador

Luke Hales/Getty Images

Raul Jimenez

Match Date: Tuesday, June 30

Time: 9 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

Mexico made it through the groups without conceding a goal, scoring wins over South Africa, South Korea and Czechia to set up this tie with Ecuador. 

Javier Aguirre's squad is working extremely hard for the home support and have played with an excellent pace across the entire pitch. So far, there's always been a sense that they would get the job done. I think that continues against Ecuador, but it'll be close.

If Ecuador put up a performance like they did against Germany, led by the speed and relentlessness of goalscorers Nilson Angulo and Gonzalo Plata, they will have more than enough to shock the co-hosts in their own backyard. 

However, an Enner Valencia problem is bubbling. The veteran striker appears almost undroppable, despite playing poorly and Ecuador looking more incisive without him. It doesn't seem like Sebastián Beccacece feels the same, though, so he's likely to start. I think it'll be a case of realising this too late, and not having the time to properly rectify the issue.

Prediction: Mexico 2-1 Ecuador

-Nick Akerman

Ecuador came into the tournament as a popular dark-horse selection, but they needed a 2-1 victory over Germany in their final group game to secure progress. 

That win showcased why they're so dangerous, though. Ecuador were clearly the more physical team, and their threat on the counterattack caused problems for Germany all game. 

The worry for Ecuador is whether they're capable of having success when there's more onus on them to take the initiative. They've lost to Ivory Coast and drawn with Curaçao, and that inability to get results when not clearly an underdog could be a problem here. 

Mexico have been adaptable — after dominating South Africa with 60 percent possession in a 2-0 win, they soaked up pressure against South Korea with 42 percent possession and Czechia with 48 percent and won both games 1-0 and 3-1 respectively — and they should look to again test Ecuador's ability to create against a packed defence.

Add in Mexico's home advantage, and El Tri's case just becomes too convincing to overlook.

Prediction: Mexico win 1-0

- Calum Rogers

Probably one of the closer knockout matches on here, this truly could be a toss-up - unstoppable force vs. immovable object, eh? 

Mexico looked very strong in the group stage, winning all three of its games with ease. 

Looking at Ecuador, there were some head-scratchers in the group stage. The inability to finish against the Ivory Coast led to a loss. A 0-0 draw with Curacao and a 2-1 win over Germany make this team hard to peg.

That said, Mexico looked good and played some great football.  That form should give them the confidence to sail into the Round of 16.

Prediction: 3-2, Mexico

- Alex Windley

England vs. Congo DR

Richard Pelham/Getty Images

Match Date: Wednesday, July 1

Time: 12 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

England met expectations by winning Group L, but the performances against Ghana and Panama in their last two games have raised concerns. 

Both overmatched opponents set out to frustrate the Three Lions; Ghana came away with a 0-0 draw and arguably should've had a penalty for a foul by Ezri Konsa, while Panama held out for 62 minutes before losing 2-0 thanks to goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.

Despite the worries that inevitably come with any hiccup at a major tournament for England, the positive outlook is that they still dominated both games in terms of both possession and chances and can expect to do the same here. 

The Democratic Republic of Congo showed that they can trouble the very best teams with their opening 1-1 draw with Portugal, and it shouldn't be a surprise if this is another nervy matchup for England. 

Thomas Tuchel's team are battle-tested, though, and the mental strength they will have gained from fighting through a bit of adversity should be enough to carry them through.

Prediction: England win 2-0

- Calum Rogers

It's all feeling a bit familiar for England. Underwhelming performances against poor opposition, solace in 'getting the job done'. Few nations put pressure on their national team like the English. We've seen this script play out before, so I ask the question: when it gets tough against top-quality opposition, will England be able to hack it?

The evidence, right now, is no. While the Three Lions should brush Congo DR aside, any opponent looking to take England out will know they struggle against a low block and leave huge gaps in midfield for their opponents to launch counterattacks. 

Thomas Tuchel tried to go more attacking against Panama to stop a repeat of the frustration against Ghana. England were wide open. Congo DR will get chances, but probably don't have the quality to pull off an all-time shock. But it won't be long until England face an opponent that can take advantage of a confusing shape and setup.

Prediction: England 2-1 Congo DR

-Nick Akerman

England might have disappointed slightly compared to pre-tournament expectations, but that's what you get when you come up against teams that set up in low blocks.

Ghana and Panama showed exactly how to frustrate the Three Lions, and while Tuchel instructed his charges to play with more vim and vigor against the latter, that left them exposed on the counterattack.

With Congo DR having better attacking firepower than those sides, that could spell trouble. Yoane Wissa has three goals at the tournament, tied for sixth in the Golden Boot race and the same number as Harry Kane. If given similar opportunities that Ghana and Panama had, he's more likely to put the ball in the net. 

For England, that experience against sides built to sit back could be useful, allowing Tuchel to adapt those tactics to better suit the occasion. That could lead to a more controlled attacking structure that doesn't create such cavernous gaps. 

With DR Congo having secured a draw against Portugal and nearly doing the same against Colombia by packing the defensive third, England should expect a similar approach. In the end, the Three Lions should find a way to make it through, but it might not be pretty. 

Prediction: England 1-0 Congo DR

- Leo Collis

Belgium vs. Senegal

Meng Yongmin/Xinhua via Getty Images

Kevin De Bruyne

Match Date: Wednesday, July 1

Time: 4 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

Belgium topped their group, but they failed to impress until their final game against New Zealand. That 5-1 victory secured their progress, but the draws with Egypt and Iran will still be of concern.

Perhaps manager Rudi Garcia finally landed on the right combination of players, but Belgium have also just looked short of speed and energy (Jérémy Doku aside), and one commanding victory over the world's 85th-ranked team isn't enough to wash away the memories of the previous two performances. 

It's been a similar story for Senegal, who progressed with just three points after beating Iraq 5-0 in their final group game. But while they did suffer defeat in their two previous games, they at least have the excuse of a far higher standard of competition (France and Norway), and they caused problems for both teams in defeat.

That extra level of preparation could help Senegal raise their game for the knockouts, and quite simply they have been better than Belgium even while suffering two defeats. There's always the chance Belgium's match-winners prove this isn't one tournament too far, but that has been how it's looked so far.

Prediction: Senegal win 2-1

- Calum Rogers

Belgium finally came to life in the last group game, smashing five past New Zealand to herald its arrival at the tournament and to seal first place in Group G.

While it's perhaps not wise to read too much into a heavy victory over a team ranked 76 places below, it does give the Red Devils some much-needed confidence heading into the knockout phases.  

But Senegal had a similarly heartening result at the close of the group stage, putting five past Iraq with no reply. The Lions of Teranga were handed a brutal pool featuring France and Norway, and getting out of it was an achievement in itself. That they couldn't pick up more than three points wasn't exactly a surprise. 

Both teams obviously now have the taste for goals, and hopefully that continues in the round of 32. With the stakes high, the game could open up into an attacking slugfest. 

In that scenario, it's Senegal that boasts the more threatening firepower. Being tested against quality opposition already could also give the African side a competitive edge against the Europeans.

Prediction: Belgium 2-3 Senegal

- Leo Collis

USA vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Folarin Balogun

Match Date: Wednesday, July 1

Time: 8 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

The United States took care of business in the group stage, topping Group D and playing some lovely ball across their first two games before clinching a precious Round of 32 spot. They'll be favored — and rightly so — against Bosnia and Herzegovina, who finished as the third-place team in Group B.

Of course, it's not as if the U.S. will be able to run all over their first knockout foe. Bosnia and Herzegovina use a deep, compact 4-4-2 block and seek to make life as difficult as possible for opposing attacks. Still, Mauricio Pochettino's team's ability to break down set defenses in comfortable wins over Paraguay and Australia in the group stage should give the U.S. confidence ahead of Wednesday's game. Toss in the fact that Christian Pulisic looks fit and firing after the group stage, and the hosts should be feeling good.

Prediction: 2-0, USA

- Joe Lowery

The US has looked solid during its run at the World Cup so far, finishing at the top of Group D with flair.

With the entire country behind him, and the myriad of marketing that truly makes us believe, it's time to pose the question: Why not us?

Sure, the road to the final will be difficult, but the USMNT has been dealt a favorable hand. Though Bosnia and Herzegovina held their own in Group B, where they managed to grind out one win and a draw, the European side had some glaring issues during those games.

For one, they failed to keep a clean sheet in all three of their matches, something the US has done at least once. Additionally, the Bosnians just scraped by as one of the better third-placed teams.

All this to say, I think the US gets it done and comfortably advances into the Round of 16.

Prediction: 3-0, USA

- Alex Windley

This Bosnia and Herzegovina team is no stranger to coming through when the stakes are win or go home, having beaten Italy in a playoff to earn its spot at the World Cup. It also is as big and physical as any team in the tournament, so this will be far from an easy match for the United States. 

Mauricio Pochettino's impact has been huge for the Americans, and he has had plenty of time to prepare his team for the knockout stage as they wrapped up the top spot in the group after their second match. This team has the strength and athleticism to counter Bosnia and Herzegovina's size, and a boost from the home crowd won't hurt their chances. 

It also proved in the group stage that it has the creativity and quality to break down a team that's willing to sit back and deal with waves of attack. This is a big chance for the Americans to prove they're capable of making a run, and they won't disappoint. 

Prediction: United States 3, Bosnia and Herzegovina 1

- Ben Chodos

Spain vs. Austria

Li Muzi/Xinhua via Getty Images

Lamine Yamal

Match Date: Thursday, July 2

Time: 3 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

Spain has not displayed the kind of form that saw them romp to the European Championship trophy in 2024. 

A 4-0 victory against Saudi Arabia does not make up for a 0-0 draw with Cabo Verde and a lackluster 1-0 win versus a fractious Uruguay side.

But Austria hasn't exactly impressed, either, with the team basically relying on a 3-1 victory over Jordan in its first Group J match to carry it into the knockout rounds. 

While neither team is showing its best, Spain has the higher base level and the greater ceiling, and that will tip the tie in La Furia Roja's favor.

The Iberian side also has more star power, and Austria simply cannot compete with that. Ralf Rangnick's men will try to lock things down and restrict Spain's ability to get into a rhythm, but it will just take a moment of quality to open things up, and Lamine Yamal looks like a prime candidate to crush that defensive resolve. 

Prediction: Spain 1-0 Austria

- Leo Collis

Spain have been disappointing so far, but it's still impossible to look past them. A slow start was perhaps to be expected given the fitness concerns over star forwards Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams entering the tournament.

While Williams is again injured after a poor challenge on him in the Uruguay game, Yamal may be hitting his stride after a second consecutive start. The 18-year-old scored against Saudi Arabia, and while he was more on the fringes against Uruguay, the fact he came through such a physical encounter unscathed is encouraging enough.

Austria's experienced group showed against Argentina in the group phase that they won't be a pushover, but that 2-0 defeat also highlighted that they simply lack the gamebreaking quality or defensive solidity to trouble the best teams, and Spain should also benefit from that here.

Prediction: Spain win 2-0

- Calum Rogers

Spain hardly looked like the powerhouse that won the most recent Euros and entered the tournament as one of the favorites for much of the group stage. While they thrashed Saudi Arabia, they also shockingly tied Cabo Verde and squeaked by Uruguay with a 1-0 win. 

But much of Spain's major tournament success has come through narrow victories, so the Spaniards may have seen the final game of the group stage as having gone exactly according to plan. And they may have also seen it as a sign of things to come in the knockouts. 

Expect Spain to dominate possession, control the game, and give up few real chances to Austria, who had their moments throughout the group stage, but were outclassed against the lone true powerhouse they faced in Argentina. Spain will win convincingly, even if the final score may not fully suggest it.  

Prediction: Spain 2, Austria 0

- Ben Chodos

Portugal vs. Croatia

PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA / AFP via Getty Images

Cristiano Ronaldo

Match Date: Thursday, July 2

Time: 7 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

Both sides here were relatively solid in the group stage, but (besides Portugal's impressive 5-0 win over Uzbekistan), they played some uninspiring football. Sure, Croatia managed results against Panama and Ghana, but they were scrappy games that didn't instill confidence that this team could potentially make a deep run.

For Portugal, when clicking, they do have one of the better midfields at the tournament, and they're going to have to step up should they want a legitimate shot at making the final. 

But, before we get that far, Portugal should have no trouble in their opening knockout round fixture here.

Prediction: 3-1, Portugal 

- Alex Windley

Despite Cristiano Ronaldo's two-goal showing against Uzbekistan, Portugal and Roberto Martinez need to realize that starting the 41-year-old is simply not in the Seleção's best interests.

Against Croatia, the Iberian side needs to look at England's approach from the group stage and add more energy and industry. Ronaldo simply can't provide those qualities in a starting role. 

Croatia continues to deliver a steady stream of solid results, helped by its own, more effective veteran Luka Modrić. Manager Zlatko Dalić seems to know exactly how to get the best out of the players at his disposal, while his counterpart in the other dugout has historically squandered elite talent on the international stage.

If Portugal can start the game with relentless pressure on the Croatia backline, then add Ronaldo in the final few minutes to will the side to a crucial goal, that could be a much better use of the player than plugging him in from the get-go. Against the Vatreni, which had to fight until the last to seal qualification, that brief explosion could prove to be a killer blow.

Unfortunately, Martinez hasn't shown the courage to apply that kind of thinking. Portugal has the better talent, but they are unfortunately being held back by two individuals.

Croatia clearly values the strength of the collective more, and that will send them on to the round of 16.

Prediction: Portugal 0-1 Croatia

- Leo Collis

Switzerland vs. Algeria

Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images

Granit Xhaka

Match Date: Thursday, July 2

Time: 11 p.m. ET

TV: FS1

Switzerland could have qualified from Group B blindfolded. Despite a shock draw with Qatar, a 4-1 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina and a 2-1 victory against Canada were to be expected. 

Algeria, meanwhile, persevered until the last to get out of Group J, overcoming a 3-0 defeat to Argentina to pick up a vital four points against Jordan and Austria.

Switzerland will need to guard against complacency, especially against a Fennec Foxes side that nearly eliminated Austria from the competition. But that lesson against Qatar should stand them in good stead, and the Nati will go into the matchup confident of taking the next step on the ladder. 

Prediction: Switzerland 2-0 Algeria

- Leo Collis

Algeria's thrilling 3-3 draw with Austria secured qualification for this round, and they have shown more than enough attacking threat to worry Switzerland.

They've also conceded seven goals, however, and while it was understandable to allow Lionel Messi a hat-trick in their opening game, they will need to tighten up if they wish to progress.

As Leo pointed out, Switzerland's level of competition to this point makes it hard to get a read on them. They sleepwalked into conceding a late equalizer against Qatar in their opening game and arguably were fortunate not to do the same against Canada in their final outing.

In Johan Manzambi, though, they have one of the tournament's most exciting young players, and he could be the deciding factor in whether he starts or comes on as a substitute.

Prediction: Switzerland win 3-1

- Calum Rogers

It sure didn't look like Switzerland would be stampeding into the knockouts after a listless draw against Qatar to open the tournament, but a couple of matches later, here we are. Do-it-all midfielder Johan Manzambi is one of the breakout stars of the tournament, and the Swiss rattled off two convincing victories to win their group. 

Manzambi could be a real spark for the Swiss, who are full of competent players but few game-changers. If his form continues, the team will be dangerous and should prove to be too much for Algeria. 

It's unlikely to be a one-sided affair, though. Algerian captain Riyad Mahrez is coming off a brace in a dramatic 3-3 tie against Austria in the final game, and his team will be spirited across all levels of the pitch. Still, the Swiss will prove to be the more complete side and head on to the next round. 

Prediction: Switzerland 2, Algeria 1

- Ben Chodos

Australia vs. Egypt

Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images

Mohamed Salah

Match Date: Friday, July 3

Time: 2 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

The World Cup has been quite the journey for Australia, who have surprised at every turn. They began with an impressive showing en route to claiming three points against Turkiye, only for manager Tony Popovic to bench star winger Nestory Irankunda for his team's clash with the United States – one that turned out to be a loss. On the final day of Group D play, Popovic inserted the Watford man back into the team, but as a striker. Again, the results left something to be desired in a scoreless draw.

Will Australia find their attacking footing again against Egypt?

For their part, the Egyptians have an unquestionable edge in the superstar department. Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush inspire fear in every defense, though the attack has been muted. Instead, it's been a stable 4-4-2 block that's served as the backbone to a hard-to-beat outfit. That blend of forward quality and deeper steel should help Egypt see out a narrow win.

Prediction: 1-0, Egypt

- Joe Lowery

Egypt have reached the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time, but they are sweating on the fitness of Mohamed Salah. Their star forward was forced into an early exit in the final group game against Iran, and while manager Hossam Hassan has said Salah should be fine, it is still a worry that he may not be at full strength.

Against a team that places a lot of emphasis on the defensive side of the game, Egypt will need all the help they can get in the attacking third. Australia have conceded just two goals in the tournament, and their opening-game win against Türkiye showed that they can carry a threat on the counterattack.

This game feels like it should come down to whether Egypt's attacking quality can overcome a determined defensive unit, or whether Australia can be clinical in the moments they spring forward. However, the Socceroos have gone goalless and only generated 0.9 expected goals in their last two games, according to FotMob. 

The Türkiye victory appears to have put everyone else on notice of how Australia can beat them, and they have yet to show they will be able to find another why if Egypt don't fall into their trap. 

Prediction: Egypt win 2-0

- Calum Rogers

The Aussies had a rough go in Group D, despite finishing second. A win in their opener against Turkey, then a subsequent draw and loss versus Australia and Paraguay, isn't the run of form you want carrying into the knockout rounds.

As for Egypt, one win in their three group games doesn't instill any confidence as they approach this match-up. Adding on, a potential injury to Mohamed Salah could derail any semblance of attacking threat.

However, if Salah plays, Egypt could very well head to the Round of 16, if not, Australia could give them a run for their money. 

Prediction: 2-1 Egypt

- Alex Windley

Argentina vs. Cabo Verde

Zhizhao Wu/Getty Images

Lionel Messi

Match Date: Thursday, July 3

Time: 6 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

I don't think any regular football watcher will pick Cape Verde here. The story of the World Cup minnows is a remarkable one, but in the older format, their three draws from three matches would see them eliminated.

It's wonderful for the nation that they get to step onto the pitch with defending champions Argentina. Lionel Messi's form is ridiculous, that barely needs saying. But just like four years ago, Lionel Scaloni has drilled a supporting cast that gets through so much work and hustle to make Leo's magic moments happen.

Time to tune in for some more!

Prediction: Argentina 5-0 Cape Verde

-Nick Akerman

The Cabo Verde story has been one of the best this sport has seen in years, giving fans – and neutrals – a reason to cheer.

Still, they'll have a rough time against Argentina. With Lionel Messi fit and firing, even after his 39th birthday just a few days ago, Lionel Scaloni's team is playing with a level of precision in possession that very few teams have matched at this World Cup. Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Rodrigo De Paul form a strong progressive passing foundation to feed Messi between the lines. From there? The greatest player of all time takes care of the rest.

The recipe works. We learned that at the 2022 World Cup, when Argentina lifted the trophy. Up against a Cabo Verde team embracing a totally new experience, they'll inch one step closer to repeating after a Round of 32 victory.

Prediction: 3-0, Argentina

- Joe Lowery

Well, this does appear to be a bit unfair, doesn't it?

Despite the David vs. Goliath nature of the match, I do feel Cape Verde will give Argentina a good fight. Obviously, with the amount of attacking firepower the reigning champions have, they'll progress to the Round of 16 with ease, but who's to say Vozinha doesn't make it difficult for them?

But still, with Lionel Messi on your team, you're bound to be the favorite in any game where he steps on the pitch.

While Cape Verde's Cinderella story has been incredible, unfortunately, it will likely end in the next round. 

Prediction: 4-0, Argentina

- Alex Windley

Colombia vs. Ghana

Alex Gottschalk/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images

Match Date: Friday, July 3

Time: 9:30 p.m. ET

TV: FOX

Colombia have justified their status as a popular dark-horse pick pre-tournament, and they punctuated an impressive group phase by taking Portugal to their limit in a 0-0 draw. 

Néstor Lorenzo's team dominated the game statistically in almost every metric, as can be seen on FotMob, and they were denied a late winner by a narrow offside decision. Previous wins against Uzbekistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo also provided encouraging signs that they can also find success in games as a clear favourite.

They will know what to expect from Ghana, who have averaged just 35.3 percent of possession in their three games, but it won't be simple. Ghana showed against England and Croatia that they can limit chances — they have the 12-best defence on expected goals, according to FotMob, which is especially impressive considering the caliber of their opponents.

This is among the most likely games to go all the way to penalties, but Colombia have more match-winners, and that is often what knockout football really comes down to.

Prediction: Colombia win 1-0

- Calum Rogers

Ghana has battled valiantly to get to this stage of the competition, but a meeting with Colombia will prove a step too far.

Los Cafeteros are absolutely electric on their day, and despite Ghana's willingness to get numbers behind the ball, there is just too much unpredictability in the South Americans' play to keep them under wraps for too long.

Colombia has already proved it can get past the low blocks of Uzbekistan and Congo DR, so Ghana will have to rethink its approach if it wants to continue its World Cup adventure. 

In the end, it could just take one moment for Colombia to break Black Star hearts, and with players like Luis Díaz and international-level James Rodríguez on board, a brief flash of devastating quality is always likely. 

Prediction: Colombia 1-0 Ghana

- Leo Collis