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Sixteen teams remain in the World Cup, each with a story to tell. Some have dazzled, others scraped through, and a few still harbour ambitions of lifting the trophy. BBC Sport’s ranking of the last 16 offers a snapshot of who has impressed, who has ridden their luck, and who might yet spring a surprise. The debate over who deserves to be where is already fierce. The knockout stages begin with fixtures such as France vs Mexico and Argentina vs Switzerland, where the margins between progress and elimination will be razor-thin.

Who has looked the best so far?

France top the list, and it’s not hard to see why. They have looked unstoppable, with Kylian Mbappé leading an attack that has struck fear into every defence. Their opponents have struggled to contain their relentless pace and precision, a combination of rapid transitions and clinical finishing that has overwhelmed teams like Croatia in the group stage (4-2 on 24 November). Spain, meanwhile, have quietly gathered momentum. After a nervy 0-0 draw with Cape Verde in their opener on 23 November, they have steadily improved, biding their time before stepping up a gear. Argentina, despite a scare against Cape Verde, remain a force to be reckoned with. Lionel Messi’s influence is undeniable, and his team have shown resilience when it mattered most, coming from behind to win 3-2 in the last 32 on 30 November.

Brazil have silenced their critics. Carlo Ancelotti has moulded them into a side capable of going all the way, with Vinícius Júnior at the heart of their attacks. Their 3-0 victory over Serbia on 28 November showcased their tactical flexibility, switching between a 4-3-3 and a 3-5-2 to exploit spaces. Morocco, semi-finalists four years ago, have the pedigree to go deep again, while Colombia have been one of the most exciting teams in the tournament so far. Their blend of pace and flair, with Luis Díaz glinting in attack, makes them a handful for any opponent. Their 2-1 win over Paraguay on 28 November highlighted their ability to break down deep defences with quick, incisive passing.

Who has overachieved—and who has underwhelmed?

Norway’s position in the rankings might raise eyebrows, but their progress has been built on solid foundations rather than spectacle. Erling Haaland’s presence ensures they are always a threat, even if their style isn’t as eye-catching as others. The United States, co-hosts riding a wave of football fever, have shown organisation but lack the cutting edge to trouble the very best. Portugal, meanwhile, have yet to fully ignite, though their squad still possesses the quality to change a game. Bruno Fernandes’ creativity and Bernardo Silva’s movement offer potential, but they have lacked cohesion in their 2-0 win over Ghana on 24 November.

Switzerland will celebrate their first knockout win at a World Cup since 1938—a 1-0 victory over Italy on 3 December—after a 38-year wait. Their tournament has been smooth so far, but Colombia will be a huge test. Egypt, however, will need Mohamed Salah to deliver if they are to progress further. Their 2-1 defeat to Uruguay on 29 November exposed their defensive frailties. Belgium’s survival has been a rollercoaster, coming from two goals down to beat Senegal 3-2 on 30 November, but their performances have lacked the authority expected of a side with such talent. England, after a thrilling 4-2 win over Croatia in their opener on 24 November, have struggled to replicate that intensity. They have done the job so far, but improvement will be essential if they are to go deeper.

What comes next—and who could still cause an upset?

The draw has thrown up intriguing ties. Mexico, explosive in attack and resolute at the back, could test England’s resolve in a potential Round of 16 clash. Colombia’s dynamism will be a stern examination for Switzerland, while Argentina’s route to the final could be paved with challenges, including a potential quarter-final against Brazil. France, as the team to beat, will face sterner tests as the tournament intensifies, with their quarter-final against Morocco looming.

The knockout stages demand consistency, and not every team left in the competition has shown it yet. Some have relied on moments of individual brilliance, others on collective resilience. The margins are finer now, and one mistake could end a campaign. For the teams that have impressed, the challenge is to maintain their form. For those who have scraped through, the focus shifts to survival—and perhaps a late surge of inspiration.

One thing is certain: the World Cup is never short of drama, and the last 16 stage is where legends are made—or undone. The next round will separate the pretenders from the contenders, and only the very best will advance.

Former US Open champion Lucas Glover seized control of the John Deere Classic with a nerveless finish on Friday, converting a 12-foot par putt on the 18th hole to card a round of 6-under 65 and open a two-shot advantage heading into the weekend. The 44-year-old American, who claimed his third PGA Tour title at Oakmont in 2009, kept his card clean for the second straight day and now leads by two strokes over the field at TPC Deere Run.

A masterclass under pressure

Glover’s round was built on precision rather than power, his ball-striking remaining sharp despite the cool, blustery conditions that unsettled several of his peers. He drained a 20-footer for birdie at the par-5 second, then rolled in another from 15 feet at the par-4 sixth to maintain momentum. The decisive moment arrived at the final green, where a slick downhill slider looked destined for trouble before Glover steadied himself and rolled it home to preserve par and his two-shot cushion. “I felt like I was grinding out there,” he said after signing his card. “The putter was hot, and I just kept believing.”

Field fragments as leaders surge

While Glover tightened his grip on the tournament, the chasing pack splintered under the pressure of his charge. No player managed to break par by more than three strokes, leaving the leaderboard scattered behind him. Two-time PGA Tour winner Chez Reavie and journeyman Tom Hoge both posted 4-under rounds of 68, but they remain four strokes adrift. Meanwhile, 2017 champion Bryson DeChambeau faded with a 72, his challenge effectively over after a bogey at the 17th. According to the PGA Tour, the cut was made at 139, eliminating a host of big names and leaving only 72 players to contest the weekend.

What comes next at TPC Deere Run

Glover will tee off at 12:40 local time on Saturday alongside Reavie and Hoge, with the top 50 and ties guaranteed a share of the $8.2 million purse. A weekend score of 12 under would fall short of the course record of 19-under, set by Jordan Spieth in 2015, though Glover insists he is focused on one shot at a time. “I’m not looking at numbers,” he said. “I just want to keep doing what I’m doing.” With the wind forecast to pick up again on Saturday, the challenge shifts from avoiding bogeys to manufacturing birdies in a course that has already humbled stronger starters.

One thing is certain: Glover’s clutch putting on Friday has turned a steady start into a commanding position. Whether he can withstand the weekend pressure remains to be seen, but for now, the veteran has reminded the field why he remains a threat on any given Sunday.

Saturday’s racing calendar delivers a double-header of high-stakes flat action, headlined by William Haggas’ Group Three-bound sprinter Elmonjed at Deauville and a crackling Listed clash between Avec Toi and Queen Of The Day. The day’s card, live on Sky Sports Racing from 12.05pm, pits European class against American Grade One stakes, offering punters and trainers alike a chance to gauge form ahead of the summer’s marquee meetings.

A race to watch: Elmonjed’s grade dip at Deauville

Elmonjed steps down to Group Three level for the Prix de Ris-Orangis, a move framed by his Group Two Minster Stakes triumph at York in May. The Haggas-trained sprinter arrives as the market leader, conceding weight to seven rivals in a field stacked with proven performers. Summer Sail, fresh from a narrow Chantilly victory, and Mise En Boite, a consistent performer in his own right, headline the chasing pack. With Elmonjed’s York win still fresh in the memory, Saturday’s outing serves as a test of his ability to handle the step back in class—and the weight concessions that come with it. The Prix de Ris-Orangis, run over six furlongs on Deauville’s tight, undulating track, demands precision from front-runners and a keen sense of pace from those tracking the leaders.

Listed showdowns: Avec Toi vs Queen Of The Day

The early action at Deauville features a Listed clash between unbeaten Avec Toi and Queen Of The Day, two fillies whose recent form has caught the eye. Avec Toi’s Saint-Cloud demolition job, where he distanced his rivals decisively, was backed up when his runner-up went on to win next time out. Queen Of The Day, meanwhile, made a winning debut at Saint-Cloud before following up at the same venue, with her conqueror’s subsequent victory adding further credibility. The Prix Roland de Chambure offers a platform for both to stake a claim in the next tier of races, with Algebre—another Saint-Cloud winner—looming as a potential spoiler in what looks set to be a deep renewal. The track’s quick ground favours those with early pace, and Avec Toi’s front-running style could force Queen Of The Day into an unfamiliar tactical battle.

British challenge: Crownbreaker and Minzelle lock horns

British raiders take centre stage in the Listed Prix Yacowlef, where Karl Burke’s Minzelle faces Kevin Phillipart de Foy’s Crownbreaker. Minzelle, a 450,000gns yearling purchase, announced herself with a third-place finish behind Sea Venture at her debut and then improved markedly to justify short odds at Catterick. Crownbreaker, yet to break his maiden in three starts, ran a career-best fifth behind Victorious in the Queen Mary at Royal Ascot—a form line that makes this drop in class a tempting proposition. Drazinda, drawn poorly at Ascot, could rebound here, adding another layer of intrigue to a race where the form book is still being written.

The tactical undercurrent at Deauville favours those who can adapt to the track’s undulating contours and quick ground. Elmonjed’s ability to handle the weight concessions will be pivotal, while Avec Toi and Queen Of The Day’s contrasting styles—one a front-running force, the other a closer—could dictate the pace in their Listed clash. For the British raiders, the Prix Yacowlef represents a chance to translate Royal Ascot promise into tangible success, with both Crownbreaker and Minzelle needing to overcome their respective question marks over stamina and tactical awareness. The six-furlong trip at Deauville suits sprinters, but the undulations demand a horse with a turn of foot rather than pure speed.

Saturday’s card is more than a warm-up for the summer’s headline acts; it’s a proving ground where reputations are burnished or bruised. Elmonjed’s bid for back-to-back wins hinges on his capacity to shrug off the weight burden, while the Listed clashes offer early signals of which youngsters are ready to climb the European ladder. For trainers like Haggas and Burke, the results here will shape decisions for the weeks ahead—whether to press on with Group targets or reassess targets for the autumn. One thing is certain: the winners at Deauville won’t just pocket prize money; they’ll earn the right to be taken seriously when the stakes rise again.

The chaos that engulfed England’s World Cup last-16 tie with Mexico was not just a logistical failure—it exposed a deeper institutional void at Fifa. For five hours on a Friday afternoon, the world governing body fumbled the most basic responsibility of tournament organisation: confirming when a match would kick off. The episode unfolded in real time across broadcasters, federation offices and fan forums, yet Fifa’s response was marked by silence, contradiction and last-minute reversals. By the time the dust settled, the damage was done—not just to England’s preparation, but to the credibility of a competition meant to showcase order.

How a forecast became a fiasco

The first sign of trouble came shortly after midday in Mexico City, when Televisa reported that Sunday’s Mexico v England match was being moved forward six hours, to 12pm local time, “due to a forecast of thunderstorms.” Within minutes, national team coach Javier Aguirre appeared on the same programme to denounce the change, framing it as a fait accompli. Yet Fifa’s initial reaction was inertia. Multiple federation sources and Fifa officials were slow to respond, and when they did, their messaging was inconsistent. Some outlets continued to treat the 12pm start as confirmed, while others insisted no agreement had been reached. The absence of a single authoritative voice—whether from Fifa’s media office or the local organising committee—allowed confusion to metastasise.

The stakes were immediate. Fans who had booked flights and accommodation based on the original 6pm local kick-off suddenly faced the prospect of watching at midday instead. For England supporters who had paid thousands to travel to the Azteca, the uncertainty was compounded by the realisation that their plans might now be unworkable. The Independent understands that some supporters were forced into costly last-minute adjustments, all while Fifa’s public silence offered no clarity. One fan group organiser told this newspaper that at least three separate travel bookings were cancelled and rebooked within a two-hour window, with some flights rescheduled at a premium of up to 400% above standard fares.

Fifa’s paralysis and the cost of drift

By late afternoon, with midnight approaching in the UK, Fifa’s own media department finally confirmed that the match would remain at its original time. The reversal came only after hours of contradictory reporting and mounting pressure, yet there was no explanation for why the initial reports had gained traction—or why Fifa had failed to quash them sooner. The governing body’s reticence to engage publicly for so long turned a logistical hiccup into a crisis of confidence. When decisions are left to rumour and speculation, the institution responsible for those decisions loses authority.

This was not merely an administrative blunder; it was a failure of leadership. Gianni Infantino’s presence in Miami, posing for selfies amid celebrities at Argentina’s warm-up match, underscored the disconnect between Fifa’s self-image and its operational competence. The organisation’s inability to confirm a kick-off time—something any competent tournament organiser should handle with hours of notice—raises questions about its readiness to manage the far greater complexities of a World Cup. If Fifa cannot get the basics right in a high-profile knockout tie, how can it be trusted to oversee VAR decisions, refereeing standards or disciplinary processes at scale?

The human cost of institutional failure

The ripple effects extended beyond the boardrooms and broadcast studios. England’s staff and players were forced to recalibrate their entire preparation schedule within hours, while Mexican fans grappled with the same uncertainty. For supporters who had planned their trips around a 6pm start, the sudden reversal meant forfeiting sightseeing or adjusting travel plans at the last minute. The financial and emotional toll was real, yet Fifa’s response offered no redress—only belated confirmation that the original time would stand.

This episode also highlighted the power of local media in shaping narratives when global institutions falter. Mexican outlets, acting on what they believed to be confirmed information, drove the initial narrative of a time change. Fifa’s delayed pushback did little to counter the momentum of those reports, leaving fans and federations alike caught in the crossfire. The episode exposed a dangerous asymmetry: when Fifa abdicates its role as the arbiter of truth, others will fill the void—often with incomplete or inaccurate information.

The fallout from this fiasco must prompt urgent introspection at Fifa. If the organisation cannot manage a single kick-off time without five hours of chaos, how will it handle the inevitable crises of a tournament where every decision carries global scrutiny? The World Cup demands precision, not improvisation. For England’s players, the match itself may yet provide redemption. But for Fifa, the damage to its reputation is already done—and it is a wound entirely of its own making.

Argentina survived a historic scare in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, escaping with a 3-2 victory over Cape Verde after extra time. The reigning champions, who lifted the trophy in Qatar two years ago, were pushed to the brink by a spirited African side before Julián Álvarez’s stoppage-time strike secured a nervy win. The result underlines the tournament’s capacity to spring surprises, while also exposing vulnerabilities in the South Americans’ armour.

How Argentina nearly suffered their greatest upset

Cape Verde, making their World Cup debut, took a 2-0 lead inside the first half-hour. The island nation, ranked 70th in the FIFA World Rankings at the time of the match, exploited gaps in Argentina’s defence to exploit two quick transitions. Their first goal came from a rapid counter, initiated by a loose ball in midfield that was seized upon by a forward running in behind the high defensive line. The second arrived after a defensive miscue allowed a through ball to break the offside trap, with the ball ultimately finding the feet of a striker who rounded the goalkeeper to double the lead. By the interval, the underdogs had stunned the crowd at MetLife Stadium, where official attendance figures confirmed a 78,212 turnout.

Lionel Messi restored parity with a composed finish midway through the second half, but Cape Verde regained the lead within minutes after a defensive lapse allowed a free header from a corner. Argentina, coached by Lionel Scaloni, were left staring at elimination before Álvarez’s dramatic late intervention. The 93rd-minute winner, a low drive from inside the box after a quick break down the left flank, completed a frantic finale and preserved Argentina’s unbeaten start to the tournament.

Why this result matters beyond the scoreboard

For Cape Verde, the performance marks a statement of intent. Their attacking fluency and defensive resilience suggest they will be a force to reckon with in future editions. The narrow defeat, though heartbreaking, will fuel belief that African football is closing the gap on the traditional powerhouses. The team’s high pressing and direct transitions caught Argentina out repeatedly, particularly in the opening 30 minutes, and their ability to threaten on the counter will give other opponents pause for thought.

Argentina, meanwhile, must address the defensive frailties exposed in New Jersey. The backline’s vulnerability to pace and set-pieces could prove costly against stronger opponents. Scaloni’s tactical adjustments, including a shift to a back three in the second half, provided more solidity, but the concession of three goals in open play highlights systemic issues that will need urgent attention. The team’s title defence now hinges on tighter organisation and improved concentration in transition moments.

What comes next for both sides

Argentina’s next match against Poland will be a sterner test, with both teams likely to push for a win to ease qualification concerns. A draw would leave the group finely balanced, while a loss could trigger a premature knockout-stage exit. Cape Verde, despite the defeat, will carry momentum into their clash with Portugal, where a point could secure their place in the last 16. Their performance against Argentina has already announced their arrival on the global stage, and further progress would send a clear signal that African football is entering a new era.

The World Cup’s expanded format means every point counts, and both teams now know the margins separating progress from elimination are razor-thin. The drama of Argentina’s escape serves as a reminder that in football, no lead is ever safe, and no team—regardless of pedigree—can afford to take their opponents lightly in a tournament of this magnitude.

Colombia secured their place in the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup with a disciplined 1-0 victory over Ghana in Kansas City, marking their third consecutive tournament progression beyond the group stage. The win, sealed by Jhon Arias’ composed finish, sets up a high-stakes Round of 16 tie against Switzerland in Vancouver on July 7, with a quarter-final berth against either Argentina or Egypt awaiting the victors.

Arias’ moment under pressure

The match began with an unwanted record etched into the record books. Both teams made early substitutions due to injury—Colombia’s Jhon Cordoba and Ghana’s Marvin Senaya withdrawn before the 15th minute—becoming the first World Cup knockout fixture in history to see double changes so soon. The disruption failed to derail the game’s rhythm, and Colombia struck almost immediately after Ghana’s second change. Luis Suarez delivered a curling cross from the right, which Arias—formerly of Wolves—met cleanly to fire past Lawrence Ati Zigi. The goal arrived just after the second substitution, a timely reminder of Colombia’s attacking intent despite the personnel shuffle.

Ghana struggled to impose themselves from the outset. Thomas Partey’s long-range effort in the opening minutes drifted just wide, while Colombia nearly doubled their lead before half-time. Luis Diaz forced a save from Ati Zigi, Suarez headed agonisingly over, and Johan Mojica’s header was brilliantly tipped away by the Ghanaian goalkeeper. The narrow advantage never looked seriously at risk, even as Diaz, Davinson Sanchez, and Juan Fernando Quintero probed for a second goal that never materialised.

Switzerland awaits in Vancouver

Nestor Lorenzo’s side now face a familiar opponent in Switzerland, a team they defeated 1-0 in the group stage of the 2024 Copa América. That victory, combined with their current form, suggests Colombia enter the last 16 as slight favourites, though Switzerland’s disciplined defensive structure and set-piece threat will demand respect. The Swiss, managed by Murat Yakin, have conceded just three goals in their last five competitive matches and will arrive in Vancouver with confidence after topping their group ahead of Brazil and Serbia.

For Colombia, the path to a quarter-final now hinges on maintaining the composure that carried them past Ghana. Their midfield trio of Jefferson Lerma, Mateus Uribe, and James Rodriguez—when fit—provides both control and creativity, while the defensive solidity of Sanchez and Yerry Mina offers a platform to build attacks. The question is whether they can replicate the same efficiency against a Swiss side that has shown resilience in transition.

Tactical takeaways: Structure over spectacle

Lorenzo’s approach against Ghana prioritised control over flair, a pragmatic shift from the expansive displays that characterised Colombia’s group-stage performances. The early substitutions disrupted Ghana’s rhythm, allowing Suarez to drift into channels and Arias to exploit space behind the defence. Colombia’s midfield shield, marshalled by Lerma, stifled Ghana’s attempts to build from deep, while their full-backs—Mojica and Daniel Muñoz—provided width without neglecting defensive duties.

Switzerland, by contrast, will likely adopt a compact 5-3-2 shape, relying on rapid transitions and direct passes to bypass Colombia’s press. Their aerial threat from set-pieces, particularly from Manuel Akanji and Nico Schlotterbeck, could test Colombia’s defensive organisation, which has conceded three goals from dead-ball situations in their last eight matches. Lorenzo may need to adjust his personnel to counter this danger, potentially introducing a more physical presence in midfield to disrupt Swiss transitions.

The contrast in styles sets up a tactical battle in Vancouver. Colombia’s ability to transition quickly from defence to attack will be crucial, while Switzerland’s set-piece proficiency could prove decisive if the game remains tight. Neither side can afford lapses in concentration—mistakes at this stage are unforgiving.

Colombia’s progression to the last 16 is a statement of consistency rather than dominance. They have not been the most eye-catching side in Kansas City, but they have been the most reliable. Now, with a quarter-final place within reach, they must decide whether to embrace the underdog role or elevate their performance to match their ambitions. Switzerland, for their part, will not roll over. This tie has the makings of a cagey, tactical contest—one where the smallest margin could decide who advances.

England’s World Cup preparations face fresh disruption after Ecuador escalated their complaint to FIFA over Mexico’s conduct during their last-16 clash, a controversy that will hang over the Three Lions’ own trip to Mexico City. The South American federation has now issued a fresh statement outlining its demands for an investigation into alleged safety and security breaches before and during the 2-0 defeat, setting the stage for potential fallout ahead of Gareth Southgate’s side’s knockout-stage clash. Meanwhile, England’s logistical headaches have only deepened, with their training base in Kansas City and hotel location kept under wraps amid fears of espionage and hostile receptions.

Ecuador’s escalation and Mexico’s World Cup shadow

Ecuador’s federation has confirmed it filed a formal complaint with FIFA, demanding a detailed probe into “events that occurred before and during the match—including all those that may have compromised safety and security issues for our fans and players.” The federation framed the complaint as the “correct and official channel” to clarify matters surrounding a game that was overshadowed by pre-match chaos. Ecuador’s flight into Mexico was delayed by several hours, while their hotel was targeted with fireworks and loud noises designed to disrupt their preparations. Those incidents preceded a 2-0 defeat to Mexico, a result that has now triggered a formal process at football’s governing body.

The timing of Ecuador’s statement is no coincidence. With England preparing to face Mexico in the same knockout stage, the federation’s move ensures the controversy remains in the spotlight. The Three Lions’ opponents will arrive in their next match under heightened scrutiny, with Ecuador’s complaint adding another layer of tension to a fixture already expected to be fiercely contested. FIFA has not yet provided a timeline for its investigation, but the governing body’s regulations require a response within 30 days of a formal complaint being lodged.

England’s Mexico City mission: storms, secrecy, and earplugs

England’s route to the Azteca Stadium has been anything but straightforward. FIFA initially proposed moving the kick-off forward by six hours due to the threat of thunderstorms in Mexico City, a change both teams rejected outright. The potential alteration would have disrupted travel plans and player readiness, but the joint refusal averted a scheduling crisis. The Three Lions are now steeling themselves for a hostile atmosphere, with reports suggesting earplugs will be distributed to help players cope with expected noise levels. Mexico City’s altitude, at over 2,200 metres above sea level, will also play a factor, with England’s medical staff monitoring players for signs of altitude sickness during training sessions in Kansas City, which sits at just 310 metres.

Security concerns have dictated England’s every move. Their training base in Kansas City has been kept confidential, with fears that sessions could be monitored by opposition scouts or hostile parties. Even their hotel location in Mexico City remains undisclosed, a precautionary measure aimed at preventing disruptions similar to those faced by Ecuador. The meticulous approach reflects the high stakes of a knockout tie in a country where footballing rivalries run deep and emotions often spill into the stands. England’s players have been briefed on crowd management protocols, including how to respond to potential pitch invasions or missile threats, following consultations with FIFA’s security team.

Southgate’s balancing act: tactics and temperament

Gareth Southgate’s side must navigate a tactical and psychological minefield in Mexico City. The Azteca’s intimidating environment demands a disciplined approach, yet England’s recent form has shown they thrive when allowed to play with freedom. The challenge will be to impose their game while absorbing whatever Mexico throws at them—both on and off the pitch. With Ecuador’s complaint still unresolved, FIFA’s response could yet alter the backdrop to the match, adding an unpredictable element to an already volatile equation. England’s midfield, anchored by Declan Rice and Kobbie Mainoo, will need to control the tempo in a high-pressure environment where turnovers could be punished instantly.

The Three Lions’ preparations have been defined by adaptability, from rejecting schedule changes to training in secrecy. Southgate’s ability to channel that adaptability into a winning performance will determine whether England can silence the Azteca’s roar or fall victim to its cauldron-like intensity. The manager has also been forced to consider contingency plans for potential late changes to the squad, with FIFA’s concussion protocols allowing for temporary replacements in knockout matches if required. England’s medical team has been conducting daily altitude acclimatisation sessions, with players using oxygen tents to simulate conditions closer to those they will face in Mexico City.

One thing is certain: the fallout from Ecuador’s complaint will not dissipate before kick-off. FIFA’s next steps could range from a formal warning to more severe sanctions, but either way, the controversy has already cast a long shadow over England’s path to the quarter-finals. With so much still unresolved, the only certainty is that Mexico’s next opponents will arrive in the most unpredictable of circumstances.

Colombia have taken the lead against Ghana in the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the match now entering extra time at Arrowhead Stadium. The South American side edged ahead in the 27th minute through a well-worked team move, putting them in front just before the half-hour mark. The goal broke a cagey opener in which both teams struggled to impose themselves, but Colombia capitalised on a Ghanaian defensive lapse to take the lead.

Colombia strike first in a cagey opener

The deadlock was broken midway through the first half, with Colombia capitalising on a Ghanaian defensive lapse. The visitors had started cautiously, prioritising structure over early pressure, but a misplaced pass under pressure in midfield allowed Colombia to break forward. James Rodríguez, operating just off the striker, received the ball in space and played a first-time pass to Luis Díaz, who cut inside before drilling a low shot past the advancing Ghanaian goalkeeper. The resulting move ended with a clinical finish, putting the South Americans in front just before the half-hour mark. Ghana responded by pushing for an equaliser, but Colombia’s midfield held firm, denying clear chances in the build-up to the break.

Ghana rally but Colombia hold firm

After the interval, Ghana intensified their efforts, probing Colombia’s backline with quick transitions. A series of corners and set-pieces tested the Colombian defence, but their organisation remained intact. Wilmar Barrios and Jefferson Lerma marshalled the midfield, breaking up Ghana’s rhythm and ensuring Colombia rarely looked under sustained pressure. Colombia, meanwhile, looked to counter when possible, though Ghana’s pressing disrupted their rhythm. The deadlock held through 90 minutes, sending the tie into extra time—a period where fatigue and concentration will be decisive.

What comes next in the knockout race

This result means Colombia progress to the Round of 16, where they will face the winner of the upcoming Uruguay vs Portugal clash. For Ghana, the tournament ends here, with their campaign ending in the first knockout stage despite moments of promise. The match has already provided a glimpse of Colombia’s resilience, while Ghana’s challenge fell short under pressure.

With extra time underway, the next goal could decide the tie. Colombia will look to protect their lead, while Ghana must gamble on attack to force a shootout. The stakes are clear: one side advances, the other goes home. Colombia’s defence will need to remain disciplined, while Ghana’s forwards will look to exploit any gaps as fatigue sets in. The psychological edge now lies with Colombia, but Ghana’s tournament experience could yet turn the game in their favour.

The World Cup’s knockout phase has already delivered drama beyond expectations, and the latest twist arrived in the form of a potential scheduling U-turn that left England’s last-16 tie with Mexico hanging in the balance. FIFA’s decision to abandon plans to move the match forward from its original 1am BST kick-off was met with relief in both dressing rooms, ensuring that pubs across the UK can remain open for the Azteca Stadium showdown. The Three Lions now face the co-host nation in Mexico City, where altitude and atmosphere will test their resolve before a possible quarter-final against Brazil. Meanwhile, Argentina survived a late scare from Cape Verde, advancing only after extra-time heroics, setting up a last-16 clash with Egypt that promises further fireworks.

England’s delayed showdown with Mexico takes centre stage

England’s preparations for their last-16 clash with Mexico were thrown into doubt when reports emerged that FIFA was considering moving the kick-off forward due to forecast thunderstorms. The proposal sparked immediate backlash from both teams, forcing world football’s governing body to perform a U-turn within 48 hours of the original 1am BST schedule. The decision to retain the late-night start ensures that the British government’s decision to extend pub opening hours will come into effect, allowing fans to gather for a high-stakes encounter in Mexico City. The Azteca Stadium’s 2,240m altitude adds another layer of complexity, with England’s conditioning and tactical approach likely to be scrutinised from the first whistle.

The Three Lions will be aiming to overcome both the physical challenge and the weight of expectation, with a potential quarter-final against Brazil looming if they progress. Their path could also cross with Argentina’s, who required extra-time to see off Cape Verde and continue their defence of the World Cup. The contrast between England’s relatively smooth route to the knockout stages and Argentina’s nervy escape underlines the tournament’s capacity to spring surprises when least expected.

Argentina survive Cape Verde’s late rally to edge into last 16

Cape Verde’s World Cup debut nearly ended in seismic fashion as they twice equalised against Argentina, forcing extra-time before ultimately falling short. The reigning champions led through Cristian Romero’s header from a Lionel Messi corner, only for Cape Verde to restore parity and send the tie into additional periods. The drama reached its peak in the opening 15 minutes of extra-time, with Argentina clinging on before Cape Verde’s relentless pressure finally broke through. The African side’s spirited performance, capped by a late strike, earned them a standing ovation, but it was Argentina who advanced after Romero’s decisive intervention.

The result sets up a last-16 clash with Egypt, who will now face a far more experienced and decorated opponent. Argentina’s survival hinged on their ability to weather storms, both literal and metaphorical, and their resilience will be tested again against a side that has already defied expectations. The tournament’s capacity to produce shocks—even in the knockout rounds—remains undiminished, with Cape Verde’s gallant display a reminder that underdogs can still trouble the established order.

What comes next: high stakes and potential blockbusters

The World Cup’s knockout phase is shaping up to deliver blockbuster ties, with England’s clash against Mexico the first major test of their tournament. The Azteca’s altitude and the late kick-off time will demand tactical flexibility from Gareth Southgate’s side, who must navigate a co-host nation brimming with confidence. A victory would set up a potential quarter-final against Brazil, a tie that could redefine England’s campaign and provide a stage for their young stars to shine.

Argentina’s survival against Cape Verde, meanwhile, has only heightened the intrigue surrounding their campaign. A last-16 meeting with Egypt offers a chance to rediscover their rhythm, though the Pharaohs will arrive with their own momentum after a spirited group-stage display. The contrast between England’s methodical progression and Argentina’s dramatic escape highlights the tournament’s unpredictability, where form counts for little and resilience is everything.

As the knockout rounds gather pace, one thing is clear: the World Cup refuses to conform to expectations. Whether it’s a late scheduling change, a dramatic extra-time winner, or a potential quarter-final showdown, the drama is far from over.