Big Names, Dark Horses and Subplots – Reasons to Watch Each Last 32 Tie

Big names dark horses and subplots – As the 2026 World Cup progresses, the stage has shifted from the group phase to the knockout rounds. With 72 matches completed, the remaining 32 promise a mix of iconic clashes, underdog narratives, and unexpected twists. The tournament has already delivered unforgettable moments, from record-breaking feats to controversies that sparked global debate. Now, the focus turns to the final 16 ties, which are set to feature a blend of established stars, emerging talents, and teams with ambitious goals. Here’s a breakdown of the standout fixtures in the last 32 stage.

England’s Knockout Path: A Glimpse into the Future

England’s upcoming last-32 tie has drawn considerable attention, with fans eager to see how the Three Lions will fare in the high-stakes knockout phase. The match is scheduled for Saturday, 28 June, and it will be the only family-friendly kickoff of the tournament. Prior to this, Harry Kane and Thomas Tuchel have hinted at the World Cup being like two distinct tournaments, with the first leg already a story of record-breaking performances and underdog triumphs. The second phase, starting on Sunday night, is expected to test the mettle of even the most formidable teams.

“We all know this World Cup is like two separate tournaments,” said Thomas Tuchel. “The first part was a wild ride with records being smashed and underdogs making history.”

The Stars Against the System: Brazil vs Japan

Brazil faces Japan in a match that epitomizes the clash between footballing giants and teams fighting against the odds. Japan, who stunned the five-time champions with a 3-2 victory in October 2025, will look to build on that momentum. Their 2006 group stage loss to Brazil by a 4-1 margin has added fuel to their quest for redemption. This fixture is not just a test of skill but also a symbolic showdown between tradition and modernity, as the Selecao battles the Samurai Blue for a place in the next round.

Uncharted Territory: South Africa and Canada

Both South Africa and Canada are making their debut in the knockout stage, a first for these nations. Despite Canada’s absence from home soil, the team is expected to rally fans in Los Angeles, where their early start time may not deter enthusiasm. This match represents a new chapter for both teams, with South Africa’s resilient defense and Canada’s attacking flair offering a compelling narrative for the first round of knockout action.

Revenge and Redemption: Germany vs Paraguay

Germany’s last-32 clash with Paraguay is steeped in history. The South American side seeks to avenge their 1-0 defeat in the 2002 World Cup, where they were eliminated by the eventual champions. Paraguay’s victory over Germany in that year marked a pivotal moment in their campaign, and now they’ll have another chance to challenge the European powerhouse. The winner of this tie could face France in the next stage, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup.

Underdogs and Legends: Netherlands vs Morocco

The Netherlands, widely regarded as the tournament favorites, will take on Morocco in a match that could define the round. Morocco, who reached the semifinals in 2022, has since strengthened their squad with the inclusion of Ayyoub Bouaddi, an 18-year-old prodigy in the midfield. This tie is poised to deliver a thrilling battle, with both teams bringing their A-game. The match, set for Monday, 29 June, might also offer insights into England’s potential last-16 opponent, as the Dutch prepare for their showdown with the African side.

The Golden Boot Race: A Tale of Two Stars

Throughout the group stage, Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, and Erling Haaland have collectively scored 14 goals, setting the stage for a dramatic final 32 round. Mbappé’s brilliance, Messi’s ageless consistency, and Haaland’s record-breaking efficiency have made them the standout performers of the tournament. While the Golden Boot race has already been a focal point, the knockout phase will see these stars face tougher challenges. Haaland, for instance, will test his skills against Ivory Coast’s ironclad defense, which has conceded only once in 10 qualifiers.

Off-Field Diversions: Belgium vs Senegal

Belgium and Senegal both saved their strongest performances for the final group stages, leaving fans wondering if their golden generation still holds the spark. Senegal, officially the weakest third-placed team, defied expectations by scoring eight goals in their matches against France, Norway, and Iraq. Meanwhile, Belgium’s journey has been one of resilience, with their squad showing signs of recovery after a challenging group stage. This match, scheduled for Wednesday, 1 July, is expected to be a showcase of their contrasting styles and ambitions.

A Clash of Styles: Spain vs Austria

Spain’s match against Austria on Friday, 3 July, is likely to be a clash of tactics. The European champions, led by the return of Lamine Yamal, will face a more direct approach from their opponents. Austria’s dramatic last-minute win in their final group game has set the tone for a fearless performance, and this tie could determine the trajectory of both teams in the knockout rounds. Spain’s high-octane play against a spirited Austrian side promises an exciting encounter.

Dark Horses and Predictable Battles

While some matches are expected to feature dominant performances, others will have surprises in store. The Ivory Coast vs Norway clash, for example, will be a test of endurance as Norway’s fans prepare to “Viking row their way into Dallas.” Ivory Coast’s defense, which has been a fortress in qualifiers, will be put to the test by Haaland’s explosive form. Meanwhile, France’s showdown with Sweden on Saturday, 28 June, could highlight an intriguing battle between Premier League stars Viktor Gyokeres and William Saliba, with both teams vying for a spot in the next round.

Co-Hosts and New Challenges

The USA, co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup, face Bosnia and Herzegovina in a match that has drawn attention for its potential to showcase the host nation’s enthusiasm. Despite a narrow defeat to Turkey in their final group game, the Americans are entering the knockout stage with confidence. Bosnia, who narrowly edged out Italy in March, will look to capitalize on their early-stage performance against a team with a strong track record of success. This match, set