After an intense 72 games, the FIFA World Cup 2026 has whittled down its 48 teams to 36 as the knockout phase is set to commence. All pre-tournament favorites, including France, Spain, England, and Argentina, have secured their spots, but the tournament has also seen unexpected triumphs.
Notably, Cape Verde, making their first World Cup appearance, advanced by drawing all three of their group-stage matches. Their next challenge is a formidable one, as they face defending champions Argentina on Friday in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reached the knockout stage for the first time in their second World Cup appearance. They will take on England in Atlanta on Wednesday. As the competition heats up, the world awaits to see if these surprise contenders can continue their remarkable journey.
