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Seven African teams were eliminated in the last 32, marking a historic setback for the continent. Only Egypt and Morocco advance to the World Cup's knockout rounds.

Lionel Messi praised Cape Verde's tenacity after Argentina's Round of 32 victory at the FIFA World Cup, as fans celebrated the island nation's spirited performance despite the loss.

Colombia defeated Ghana 1-0 in a tightly contested FIFA World Cup match, securing their place in the last 16. Former Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan criticized the Black Stars' lackluster performance.

Lionel Messi scored his 20th FIFA World Cup goal to help defending champions Argentina overcome debutants Cape Verde 3-2 in the Round of 32. Messi joked post-match that opponents demanded his jersey despite rough treatment.

The England squad was met with boos as they arrived at their hotel in Mexico City ahead of their World Cup last-16 clash against Mexico, amid growing tension and scheduling confusion.

Switzerland secured their first World Cup knockout stage victory in 88 years, defeating Algeria 2-0 in Vancouver. Goals from Ndoye and Embolo sealed the historic result.

Spain delivered a dominant performance to defeat Austria 3-0, securing their spot in the Round of 16 at the FIFA 2026 World Cup.

Spain advanced to the World Cup last 16 with a dominant 3-0 victory over Austria, powered by a brace from Mikel Oyarzabal and a Pedro Porro header.

South Africa's national team celebrated a historic achievement by advancing past the World Cup group stage for the first time, returning home to a hero's welcome.

Belgium overturned a two-goal deficit to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time, with Youri Tielemans scoring a 125th-minute penalty to secure a place in the World Cup last 16.

Harry Kane scored two goals in the final 15 minutes as England came from behind to defeat DR Congo 2-1 and advance to the World Cup round of 16, where they will face Mexico.

Kylian Mbappé scored twice to set a new record for goals in World Cup knockout matches as France defeated Sweden 3-0 and advanced to the Round of 16.

Erling Haaland scored a late winner as Norway defeated Ivory Coast 2–1 to secure a Round of 16 clash against Brazil at the 2026 World Cup.

Nigerian internationals Tochukwu Nnadi and Frank Onyeka secure new roles in France and England, while South Africa's Thendo Mofokeng joins Union St-Gilloise. Samuel Chukwueze remains at AC Milan after rejecting Turkish offer.

Paraguay produced a historic upset by defeating four-time champion Germany 4-3 on penalties in the Round of 32, marking one of the greatest shocks in World Cup history.