The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 is throwing up some of the most dramatic results in tournament history, with defending champions Argentina looking sharp, Germany shockingly eliminated on penalties, and Harry Kane delivering a late rescue act for England.
Kane Saves England at the Death
England came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 in their Round of 32 clash on July 1, with Harry Kane scoring twice in the final 15 minutes to rescue Thomas Tuchel’s side after Batshack Cipenga had put Congo ahead in just the seventh minute. Teammates hailed Kane as playing at Messi-esque levels, though England’s below-par performance until that point raised questions about their form heading into the last 16.
Germany Out on Penalties in Biggest Shock So Far
One of the biggest upsets in World Cup history unfolded as Paraguay eliminated four-time champions Germany on penalties. Julio Enciso put Paraguay ahead before half time, Kai Havertz levelled, but Jonathan Tah’s extra-time header was ruled out by VAR for an earlier foul. Havertz then missed the first spot kick, and Paraguay won 4-3 when Jose Canale converted the decisive penalty, ending Germany’s tournament in the Round of 32 for the second time since 2018.
France and Norway Cruising Through
France brushed Sweden aside 3-0 on June 30, with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice and Michael Olise adding a third in a dominant display that underlined France’s status as one of the tournament favourites. Norway’s Erling Haaland scored the winner as they beat Ivory Coast 2-1 on the same day, while Mexico completed a perfect group stage record with a 2-0 win over Ecuador.
Morocco Stun Netherlands, Paraguay Cause More Chaos
Morocco beat the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to continue their tournament run, while Canada won their first-ever World Cup knockout stage match, beating South Africa 1-0. Brazil edged Japan 2-1 and now face a Round of 16 clash that will test their credentials as potential champions.
Today’s Matches: July 2
Today’s schedule features Spain vs Austria in Inglewood (3pm ET), Portugal vs Croatia in Toronto (7pm ET), and Switzerland vs Algeria in Vancouver (11pm ET), all part of the ongoing Round of 32 action as the field narrows to 16 teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Germany out of the World Cup 2026?
Yes, Germany were eliminated in the Round of 32, losing to Paraguay 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
How did England win their Round of 32 match?
Harry Kane scored twice in the final 15 minutes to give England a 2-1 comeback win over DR Congo on July 1.
Who are the favourites to win the World Cup 2026?
France and Spain are considered the joint favourites, followed by England, Portugal, Germany (now eliminated), the Netherlands (eliminated), and Norway.
