World Cup 2026: Reasons to watch every match in the last 32

Sunday, June 28

South Africa v Canada (20:00 BST)

This is a region where both countries have not reached the knockout stages before. Canada may be out on home soil, but expect plenty of fans to travel to Los Angeles.

Monday June 29

Brazil v Japan (18:00 BST)

Stars on the system. A game that just screams World Cup – Selecao vs Samurai Blue. Favorite Japan beat the five-time champions 3-2 last October and – 20 years on – will be looking to avenge a 4-1 group stage defeat in 2006.

Germany v Paraguay (21:30 BST)

Paraguay will face De Mannschaft looking to avenge a 1-0 defeat in the last 16 in 2002, with France looking more likely to face them.

Tuesday, June 30

Netherlands v Morocco (02:00 BST)

This can be the link of the circle. The expected winners of the tournament, the Netherlands, met the Moroccan team that reached the semi-finals four years ago and added the 18-year-old prodigy Ayoub Bouadi to the midfield.

Ivory Coast vs Norway (18:00 BST)

A static force meets an immobile object. Erling Haaland, who has not conceded a goal in 10 qualifiers, is in line with the Ivory Coast defence. The only guarantee here is a ‘Viking Paddle’ when Norwegian fans arrive in Dallas.

France v Sweden (22:00 BST)

We all know about France’s abundance of wealth in attack but the other end of the pitch makes for a very interesting battle – Victor Georkers and his Arsenal team-mate William Saliba. Which of these Premier League champions will come out on top?

Wednesday, July 1

Mexico v Ecuador (02:00 BST)

Mexico in Azteca is a scene worth an early start. And before breakfast you can have a scouting report on England’s potential last-16 opponents.

England v DRC (17:00 BST)

Speaking of Thomas Tuchel’s side, the Three Lions’ only family friendly is the start of the tournament.

Belgium v ​​Senegal (21:00 BST)

Both teams left their best in the group stage. There are signs that there may be some sparks in Belgium’s golden generation and with Senegal officially third-placed in qualifying, they have scored eight goals in games against France, Norway and Iraq and their away focus is clearly behind them.