The FIFA World Cup round of 16 continues on Sunday with two blockbuster ties: Brazil face Norway in New Jersey, while co-hosts Mexico take on England in Mexico City. Both matches carry significant historical weight and high stakes as teams vie for a spot in the quarterfinals.

Brazil will look to end an unwanted trend against Norway. The teams have met four times previously, with Norway unbeaten (2 wins, 2 draws), including a memorable 2-1 victory at the 1998 World Cup. Despite this, Opta's supercomputer favors Brazil, winning in regulation time in 53.6% of 25,000 simulations. Norway won in 22.4%, while 24% ended level.

England and Mexico have only met once at a World Cup — in 1966, when hosts England won 2-0 en route to their only title. England have also won their last four friendlies against Mexico. Opta predicts a close contest: England wins in 40.6% of simulations, Mexico in 31.5%, with 27.9% going to extra time.

Morocco reached the quarterfinals for the second straight tournament by defeating co-hosts Canada 3-0. Azzedine Ounahi scored twice. Canada dominated the first half but failed to capitalize. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi said: "It's a World Cup match, difficult games. We reacted well in the second half, especially in duels and second balls."

France captain Kylian Mbappe insisted his side was ready for Paraguay's physical approach after a hard-fought 1-0 win. Mbappe converted a 70th-minute penalty. "They thought we'd come out in tuxedos, but we know how to play dirty football too," Mbappe said. Coach Didier Deschamps criticized the refereeing: "We got three yellow cards while they kept fouling."

Mexico aims to end a 40-year quarterfinal drought. At Mexico City Stadium, they have lost only two official matches since 1966. Former striker Hugo Sanchez said: "The stadium is a monster; that explains the high number of wins. If we play like we did against Ecuador, we can beat England." Mexico has won eight and drawn two of 10 World Cup matches at this venue.

Source: www.aljazeera.com