The World Cup 2026 knockout stage is intensifying as football powers England, Argentina, and Belgium face tough challenges in the round of 32, while smaller nations aim for historic upsets.

England will face DR Congo for the first time. Despite showing vulnerability against African teams (draw with Ghana, loss to Senegal), Thomas Tuchel's side remains favorites. Opta's supercomputer gives England a 73.9% chance of winning in 90 minutes.

Belgium meets Senegal for the first time in a competitive fixture. Belgium has lost only one of six matches against African opposition at the World Cup (2022 loss to Morocco). Opta gives Belgium a 45.6% chance of victory.

The United States faces Bosnia and Herzegovina for the fourth time, unbeaten in previous encounters (W2 D1). However, the US has won only one of its last 21 World Cup matches against European nations. Opta favors the US with a 67.5% win probability.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni warned his players not to underestimate Cape Verde. The defending champions won all three group matches, with Messi scoring six goals. Cape Verde held Spain to a goalless draw and drew 2-2 with Uruguay.

Cape Verde President Jose Maria Neves believes his team can beat Argentina 1-0. "We are playing to win. Small nations should always strive to surprise," he said.

Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 to reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 1986. France beat Sweden 3-0, with Mbappe scoring twice to set a record for most World Cup knockout-stage goals (10). Deschamps set a record for most wins by a manager (18).

Ronald Koeman resigned as Netherlands coach after a penalty shootout loss to Morocco. Players who missed penalties faced racist abuse online.

Ecuador's football federation filed a complaint with FIFA over Mexican fans' behavior outside the team hotel. A Ghanaian witch doctor predicted Cape Verde would upset Argentina.

Source: www.aljazeera.com