World Cup 2026: Round of 16 preview for July 4

The World Cup enters the high-stakes knockout phase today, with the Round of 16 deciding the first teams to advance to the quarterfinals. Four nations are preparing to battle for their place in the next round after impressive group stage performances.

The day begins with Canada facing Morocco. The Canadians are currently enjoying the best campaign in their history, having secured their spot in the Round of 16 with a dramatic stoppage-time goal from Stephen Eustáquio against South Africa. Morocco, meanwhile, arrives full of confidence following their penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands, aiming to build on their historic 2022 semifinal run.

Later, Paraguay takes on France. The Paraguayans are highly motivated after eliminating Germany on penalties, hoping to equal their best-ever tournament performance from 2010. France enters the match as clear favorites, remaining undefeated through four games with 13 goals scored, anchored by the offensive prowess of Kylian Mbappé.