The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage continues on July 1 with three Round of 32 matches. These games feature strong European sides against determined opponents, with the United States playing on home soil.
England vs DR Congo – 12:00 p.m. ET, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
England enters as clear favorites after topping their group. The Three Lions have attacking talent led by Harry Kane up front, supported by Jude Bellingham in midfield and wingers Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford. Declan Rice returns in midfield to provide balance alongside Elliot Anderson.
DR Congo reaches the knockout round for the first time. They rely on a compact defensive setup and quick transitions through forwards Yoane Wissa and Cedric Bakambu. Aaron Wan Bissaka adds experience at the back.
England should control possession and look to break down a deep lying defense. Key things to watch include England’s set piece threat and whether DR Congo can create counter opportunities. A comfortable England win is expected, but the Leopards have shown they can frustrate bigger teams.
Belgium vs Senegal – 4:00 p.m. ET, Seattle Stadium
Belgium bounced back from early group draws with a strong 5-1 win in their final match. The Red Devils feature Kevin De Bruyne pulling strings in midfield, with Jeremy Doku and Leandro Trossard providing width. Charles De Ketelaere starts up front, with Romelu Lukaku available off the bench. Thibaut Courtois anchors the defense.
Senegal plays with energy and pace. Sadio Mane and Ismaila Sarr lead the attack, supported by creative midfielders like Lamine Camara and Idrissa Gueye. They reached this stage as one of the best third placed teams after a big win in their final group game.
This matchup pits Belgium’s technical quality against Senegal’s physicality and counter attacking style. Belgium holds the edge on paper, but Senegal can punish any lapses in concentration. Expect a competitive game where midfield control could decide the outcome.
USA vs Bosnia and Herzegovina – 8:00 p.m. ET, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara
The USMNT faces Bosnia and Herzegovina in a home knockout match. The Americans topped their group with solid results and now have home support behind them. Key players include Christian Pulisic in attack, Folarin Balogun up front, and defensive anchors like Tyler Adams and Antonee Robinson. Coach Mauricio Pochettino will look for the team to build on its group stage momentum.
Bosnia and Herzegovina reached the knockout stage for the first time. They are likely to set up defensively and look for counter attacks. The team has experience but faces a tough task against the hosts.
The USMNT is favored to advance. Things to watch include how the Americans handle Bosnia’s compact shape and whether Pulisic can create decisive moments. Home advantage and crowd energy should help the Stars and Stripes push forward.
These matches highlight the expanded tournament’s competitive balance, with underdogs having real chances to cause upsets in the Round of 32.