History has been made in the FIFA World Cup 2026, as the tournament’s three co-hosts, USA, Canada and Mexico, have advanced past the knockout stage and made it to the Round of 16 (pre-quarterfinals).
Confirming this historic achievement, FIFA also announced on its social media platform that all three hosts of the 2026 World Cup have joined the last 16 teams.
The United States qualified for the next stage by defeating Bosnia and Herzegovina in their Round of 32 match, while Mexico put in a strong performance to defeat Ecuador and make it to the Round of 16. Canada also won its knockout match to advance to the last 16.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has entered the knockout phase, with 10 countries confirming their place in the pre-quarterfinals, officially the Round of 16, after a dramatic start to the Round of 32.Co-hosts Canada, Mexico and the USA led the way for the host nations. Canada defeated South Africa 1-0 to become the first team into the last 16, while Mexico beat Ecuador 2-0 and the USA overcame Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 despite being reduced to 10 men.
European powerhouses England, Belgium, France and Norway also progressed. England edged DR Congo 2-1 thanks to two late goals from Harry Kane, while Belgium came from 2-0 down to beat Senegal 3-2 in extra time. France cruised past Sweden 3-0 and Norway defeated Ivory Coast 2-1.
South America is represented by Brazil and Paraguay. Brazil saw off Japan 2-1, while Paraguay caused the tournament’s biggest upset so far by knocking out Germany 4-3 on penalties. Morocco completed the current line-up after a 3-2 penalty shootout win over the Netherlands.
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