DALLAS/MIAMI July 4, 2026 — A day of high drama, penalty shootouts, extra-time heroics and historic moments brought the Round of 32 to a thrilling close at the FIFA World Cup 2026™ co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the USA.
Egypt claimed their first-ever knockout-stage victory in World Cup history, while defending champions Argentina were pushed to the brink by debutants Cabo Verde before advancing — setting up a mouth-watering Round of 16 clash between the two in the coming days.
Egypt edge Australia in penalties after 1-1 draw
At Dallas Stadium, Egypt took an early lead through Emam Ashour’s 13th-minute header from a free-kick. Australia levelled when Mohamed Hany turned Aiden O’Neill’s delivery into his own net. The match stayed locked until penalties, where Patrick Beach’s fine save was followed by his substitution for Mathew Ryan. Egypt held their nerve, with Hossam Abdelmaguid converting the decisive kick to win 4-2. The Pharaohs now march into the last 16 to face Argentina — a historic milestone for African football.
Messi magic sees Argentina survive Cabo Verde scare
In Miami, Lionel Messi orchestrated a pulsating 3-2 extra-time victory for Argentina against the spirited Islanders. Lisandro Martínez opened the scoring (assisted by Messi’s brilliant touch and shot), only for Deroy Duarte to equalise. In extra time, Martínez struck again from a Messi corner (flicked on by Alexis Mac Allister), but Sidny Lopes Cabral produced one of the goals of the tournament with a stunning solo strike. Ultimately, an own goal by Diney Borges in the 111th minute settled it for La Albiceleste.
Messi, at 39 years and 9 days, became the oldest South American player ever to score in a World Cup knockout stage, surpassing a 72-year-old record, and reclaimed the lead in the adidas Golden Boot race.
Co-hosts shine as giants tumble
All three host nations advanced with clean victories:
- Canada beat South Africa 1-0
- USA defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0
- Mexico comfortably beat Ecuador 2-0
Other standout results on Matchday 23 included:
- France 3-0 Sweden
- Spain 3-0 Austria
- Brazil 2-1 Japan
- England 2-1 DR Congo
- Portugal 2-1 Croatia
- Belgium 3-2 Senegal
- Switzerland 2-0 Algeria
- Norway 2-1 Côte d’Ivoire
Shocks came via penalties: Paraguay eliminated Germany 4-3 after a 1-1 draw, while Morocco sent Netherlands packing 3-2 on spot-kicks after 1-1. Colombia wrapped up the round with a narrow win over Ghana.
What’s next?
The Round of 16 kicks off immediately with blockbuster ties including Argentina vs Egypt, Canada vs Morocco, Mexico vs England, Portugal vs Spain, USA vs Belgium, and Brazil vs Norway — promising more fireworks across North American venues.
FIFA described the day as “another extraordinary day” filled with comebacks, debutant heart and champion resilience. For fans worldwide, the 2026 World Cup continues to deliver unforgettable football — and the best is yet to come.
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