
The group stage of the 2026 World Cup has begun and all 16 matches of the next stage have now been confirmed.
One of the most exciting matches is the one between Brazil and Japan, with the “Selecao” facing a dangerous opponent. Equal interest is expected for the Spain-Austria duel, while Portugal will challenge Croatia in another clash between two highly qualified national teams.
Germany kicks off their adventure against Paraguay, while France faces Sweden. If both teams advance to the next round, then football fans can enjoy a European classic as Germany and France clash in the round of 16.
A similar scenario is between Portugal and Spain. If they eliminate Croatia and Austria respectively, the two Iberian giants will face each other in a duel that promises to be spectacular.
Also notable in this phase are the USA vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina challenge, Morocco vs. the Netherlands, and the duel between Switzerland and Algeria, which qualified as one of the best third-place teams.
On the other hand, Argentina seems to have benefited from a more favorable draw. The world champions will first face Cape Verde, and if all goes according to plan, the path to the semi-finals looks clearer than for their other rivals.
Complete pairs of the 1/32 stage:
Germany – Paraguay
France – Sweden
South Africa – Canada
Netherlands – Morocco
Portugal – Croatia
Spain – Austria
USA – Bosnia and Herzegovina
Belgium – Senegal
Brazil – Japan
Ireland – Norway
Mexico – Ecuador
England – DR Congo
Argentina – Cape Verde
Australia – Egypt
Switzerland – Algeria
Colombia – Ghana