The FIFA World Cup 2026 has been exciting, full of surprises and milestones as the competition is progressing towards the knockout stage. In this World Cup, more number of teams were eligible to participate because of the new format adopted by FIFA, which was 48 teams, but now it is time for only those teams who can actually win the trophy.
Fans from all across the globe are following the matches to know about the teams qualified for the Round of 16 and teams that were eliminated.
Teams Qualified for the Round of 16
After the completion of the first round of 32 games, the following teams have qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16:
- Canada
- Morocco
- Paraguay
- France
- USA
- Belgium
- Portugal
- Spain
- Brazil
- Norway
- Mexico
- England
- Switzerland
- Colombia
- Argentina
- Egypt
All spots for the Round of 16 are secured after the completion of the Round of 32 games.
Eliminated During the Round of 32
The knockout stage has already produced several dramatic exits.
Confirmed eliminations include:
- South Africa
- Netherlands
- Germany
- Sweden
- Senegal
- Bosnia
- Austria
- Croatia
- Japan
- Cote d’lvoire
- Ecuador
- DR Congo
- Algeria
- Ghana
- Australia
- Cabo Verde
Each was defeated in the Round of 32, ending their World Cup campaign.
Biggest Surprises of the Tournament
There have been a number of surprises from the FIFA World Cup 2026.
- Historic Canada
Canada is among the teams that qualified for the Round of 16 through a well-disciplined win against South Africa, thus extending their impressive performance.
- Paraguay Eliminates Germany
A massive shock came with Paraguay eliminating four-time champions, Germany, in an exciting penalty shootout.
- Morocco Goes On Winning Streak
Once again, Morocco confirmed their position among the best football nations in the world by winning against the Netherlands and qualifying for the Round of 16.
- Early Elimination of Uruguay
One of the surprises for many football fans has been the early elimination of Uruguay in the group stage.
Road to the FIFA World Cup Final
Teams still remaining in the competition must navigate:
- FIFA World Cup Road to Round of 16
- Quarter-finals
- Semi-finals
- Third-place Playoff
- FIFA World Cup Final
What the Fans Can Look Forward To?
With the Round of 32 matches left to be played, the last teams to qualify for the Round of 16 are to be determined. There are many tournament favorites yet to earn their way through, but there are also several upsets that may surprise everyone.
Now that the World Cup has entered its most critical phase, each game is becoming more crucial than ever.
Final Word
It should be noted that the FIFA World Cup 2026 Road to the Round of 16 has brought to fans unforgettable games. Given that only 16 teams will stay in the competition. Fight for the world championship is getting even more heated. Spectators will have an opportunity to watch amazing games, surprise heroes, and unbelievable drama in the journey to the FIFA World Cup Final.
Follow Trendz of Gulf (TOG) for the latest information about the FIFA World Cup 2026, Round of 16, fixtures, match results, and much more about football.
