The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 continued with three captivating encounters as Norway, France and co-hosts Mexico secured their places in the Round of 16 with impressive victories over Ivory Coast, Sweden and Ecuador respectively.
Norway 2-1 Ivory Coast
Norway booked their place in the Round of 16 after overcoming a spirited Ivory Coast side in a hard-fought 2-1 victory.
The Norwegians made the perfect start when Antonio Nusa produced a sensational strike to put his side ahead, giving Ivory Coast an early mountain to climb. Despite trailing, the African side grew into the contest and produced an outstanding second-half display.
The introduction of Amad Diallo on the hour mark transformed Ivory Coast’s attack, injecting pace, creativity and belief. Their persistence was rewarded through a moment of individual brilliance as they found a deserved equaliser, setting up a tense finale.
However, Norway’s star man once again delivered when it mattered most. In the 86th minute, Erling Haaland found the decisive goal, finishing clinically to restore Norway’s lead and send them through to the Round of 16.
While Norway celebrated qualification, Ivory Coast bowed out having shown tremendous character and quality, particularly during an impressive second-half performance.
France 3-0 Sweden
France delivered another statement performance with a commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden to comfortably secure their place in the last 16.
Once again, captain Kylian Mbappé stole the headlines. The French superstar netted a brilliant brace, continuing his outstanding World Cup form and leading his nation with authority.
Mbappé’s two goals move him ever closer to Lionel Messi’s World Cup scoring record of 19 goals, underlining his status as one of the tournament’s standout performers.
France controlled proceedings from start to finish, dominating possession and creating numerous chances while rarely allowing Sweden an opportunity to threaten. Their balanced display highlighted why they remain among the favourites to lift the trophy.
Mexico 2-0 Ecuador
Co-hosts Mexico continued their remarkable World Cup campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Ecuador, delighting a passionate home crowd and extending their perfect run to four wins from four matches.
The build-up to the contest was surrounded by controversy after hundreds of Mexican supporters gathered outside Ecuador’s team hotel overnight. Fans reportedly used drums, trumpets, car horns and other instruments throughout the night, with several Ecuadorian players said to have been unable to get proper rest before the match. Ecuador has since lodged an official complaint requesting action over the incident.
Once the match kicked off, Mexico remained focused and produced another disciplined display to advance to the Round of 16.
The evening also marked a historic milestone for Gilberto Mora (17), who became the second youngest player ever to start a FIFA World Cup knockout match, with only Pelé having achieved the feat at a younger age.
Mexico’s campaign has been nothing short of exceptional. Mexico have won all four of their matches, scored eight goals and are yet to concede, underlining both their attacking quality and defensive resilience as they continue their quest for World Cup glory.
With Norway, France and Mexico all advancing, the race for the FIFA World Cup 2026 title continues to gather momentum as the Round of 16 promises even more drama and unforgettable moments.
Confirmed Matchups for the Round of 16
| Match | Date | SL Time |
| Canada vs Morocco | 4 July (Saturday) | 10:30 PM |
| Paraguay vs France | 5 July (Sunday) | 2:30 AM |
| Brazil vs Norway | 6 July (Monday) | 1:30 AM |
