Key takeaways from Round of 32 stage at World Cup 2026
The 2026 World Cup's Round of 32 brought surprises and trends, including the downfall of traditional powerhouses like Germany, African teams making an impact, and clear home advantage for co-hosts.
The World Cup's knockout rounds have truly begun, with the Round of 32 delivering intensity and unexpected results. Seven UEFA teams advanced, including Norway, which deliberately saved its starters during the group stage by conceding to France. The three co-hosts—Canada, Mexico, and the United States—all reached the Round of 16, marking the first time since 2014 that CONCACAF has had three representatives at this stage. Four South American nations progressed: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Paraguay. Paraguay, having exhausted themselves to qualify from the group, pulled off a historic penalty shootout victory over Germany—the first time Germany has lost a World Cup match on penalties.
France's attacking quartet of Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, Kylian Mbappe, and Michael Olise dominated the group stage, and Bradley Barcola replaced Doue to increase the tempo in a 3-0 win over Sweden. Belgium and England both came from behind to beat African opponents Senegal and DR Congo, respectively. Portugal edged Croatia 2-1 with a controversial VAR decision that disallowed a Croatian equalizer due to a chip in the ball registering a minimal touch.
Traditional powers are struggling. Germany, expected to revive after recent disappointments, lost to Paraguay on penalties, a first in their World Cup history. Coach Julian Nagelsmann admitted they are no longer among the elite. Italy failed to qualify, and Uruguay exited in the group stage.
African teams left their mark. Cape Verde, the ultimate underdogs, took Argentina to extra time before losing 3-2 to an own goal. Egypt and Morocco advanced by defeating Australia and the Netherlands, respectively, with Morocco relying on their defensive solidity from 2022 and a penalty save by Yassine Bounou.
In the Golden Boot race, Lionel Messi leads with seven goals, followed by Kylian Mbappe with six, who is aiming to become the first back-to-back winner. Erling Haaland and Harry Kane have five each. Messi also tops the all-time list with 20 World Cup goals.
Home advantage is clear. Mexico extended its unbeaten streak at home dating to 1970 and reached the "Fifth Game" for the first time since 1986, though at least four celebration-related deaths were reported. The US beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 in Santa Clara, but Folarin Balogun will be suspended after a red card. Canada needed a stoppage-time goal from Stephen Eustaquio to beat South Africa in Los Angeles.
