The 2026 FIFA World Cup began its knockout phase on Friday as the first round-of-16 fixtures kicked off across host cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The single-elimination format leaves no margin for error.

The expanded 48-team tournament produced an enlarged knockout bracket of 32 qualifiers, the largest in World Cup history. FIFA confirmed the round-of-16 pairings after the final group matches concluded, setting up a packed schedule of elimination ties.

The United States advanced from the group stage with captain Christian Pulisic drawing attention after returning from a first-half injury sustained in the opener against Paraguay. Brazil also progressed and remained among the tournament favourites following their final group match against Scotland.

Record crowds attended the group stage, with several venues including MetLife Stadium and stadiums in Mexico and Canada reporting capacity attendances. Broadcasters reported strong global viewing figures heading into the knockout rounds.

The round of 16 continues over the weekend, with winners advancing to the quarter-finals. The tournament final is scheduled for MetLife Stadium in New Jersey in July.