The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 marks the beginning of the knockout phase in the first-ever 48-team World Cup. After an intense group stage, the top teams now battle in single-elimination matches held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Fans around the world are eagerly awaiting this stage, where every match could shape the road to the final.
Why the Round of 32 Is Crucial
This is the first World Cup to feature a Round of 32, making the knockout phase even more competitive. Teams that finish 1st and 2nd in their groups automatically qualify, while some best-ranked third-place teams also advance.
Key highlights of this stage:
- Single-elimination format
- Matches in iconic stadiums
- More opportunities for underdogs
- Intense tactical battles
To understand how teams reached this stage, you can explore the full group stage breakdown using resources such as the
➡️ FIFA World Cup 2026 Group Stage Matches, Schedule and Fixtures.
Official Round of 32 Fixtures, Dates, and Venues
Below is the complete table of all 16 matches in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026:
| Date | Match | Teams | Stadium | City |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28 June 2026 | 73 | Group A runners-up vs Group B runners-up | Los Angeles Stadium | Los Angeles |
| 29 June 2026 | 74 | Group E winners vs Group A/B/C/D/F third place | Boston Stadium | Boston |
| 29 June 2026 | 75 | Group F winners vs Group C runners-up | Estadio Monterrey | Monterrey |
| 29 June 2026 | 76 | Group C winners vs Group F runners-up | Houston Stadium | Houston |
| 30 June 2026 | 77 | Group I winners vs Group C/D/F/G/H third place | New York New Jersey Stadium | New York/New Jersey |
| 30 June 2026 | 78 | Group E runners-up vs Group I runners-up | Dallas Stadium | Dallas |
| 30 June 2026 | 79 | Group A winners vs Group C/E/F/H/I third place | Estadio Azteca | Mexico City |
| 1 July 2026 | 80 | Group L winners vs Group E/H/I/J/K third place | Atlanta Stadium | Atlanta |
| 1 July 2026 | 81 | Group D winners vs Group B/E/F/I/J third place | San Francisco Bay Area Stadium | San Francisco Bay Area |
| 1 July 2026 | 82 | Group G winners vs Group A/E/H/I/J third place | Seattle Stadium | Seattle |
| 2 July 2026 | 83 | Group K runners-up vs Group L runners-up | Toronto Stadium | Toronto |
| 2 July 2026 | 84 | Group H winners vs Group J runners-up | Los Angeles Stadium | Los Angeles |
| 2 July 2026 | 85 | Group B winners vs Group E/F/G/I/J third place | BC Place | Vancouver |
| 3 July 2026 | 86 | Group J winners vs Group H runners-up | Miami Stadium | Miami |
| 3 July 2026 | 87 | Group K winners vs Group D/E/I/J/L third place | Kansas City Stadium | Kansas City |
| 3 July 2026 | 88 | Group D runners-up vs Group G runners-up | Dallas Stadium | Dallas |
Where to Find the Complete World Cup Schedule
To plan your viewing, bookmark these trusted schedule resources:
- ✅ Explore the full tournament layout at WorldCup2026Schedule.com
- ✅ Get a match-by-match breakdown at Complete FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule: Dates, Venues, and Times
- ✅ Download and print the World Cup 2026 Schedule PDF for offline use via FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule PDF
- ✅ Follow Canada’s path in the tournament at Canada’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule
- ✅ For an all-in-one overview, read the Complete Guide to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule
These links help fans stay updated, understand venues, and locate official match timings with ease.
Round of 32 Stadium Highlights
Some of the most iconic venues hosting this stage include:
- Estadio Azteca (Mexico City) – legendary and historic
- SoFi/Los Angeles Stadium – modern and futuristic
- MetLife / New York New Jersey Stadium – massive capacity
- BC Place (Vancouver) – scenic and fan-friendly
- Mercedes-Benz / Atlanta Stadium – high-tech arena
Each stadium is carefully selected to enhance the fan experience and ensure global visibility.
How This Stage Impacts the Knockout Path
Winning in the Round of 32 secures a place in the Round of 16, bringing teams one step closer to the quarter-finals and eventually the World Cup Final. There is no room for error; extra time and penalties can decide a nation’s fate.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 promises high drama, packed stadiums, and unforgettable football moments. With a structured schedule, expanded format, and world-class venues, fans are set for the most exciting knockout stage in World Cup history.
Stay prepared, follow the fixtures, and explore official schedule resources to never miss a match. The road to glory begins here!