On Friday, July 3rd, the lineup for the 2026 World Cup round of 16 was finalized with three matches that showcased a mix of tension, dominance, and a historic achievement: Egypt ousted Australia in a penalty shootout, Argentina needed extra time to overcome Cape Verde, and Colombia confidently secured their spot against Ghana.
Egypt's Historic Feat as They Await Argentina
The day's biggest surprise unfolded at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, where the Pharaohs drew 1-1 with Australia over 120 minutes and then triumphed 4-2 in the penalty shootout, marking their first progression to the knockout phase since their World Cup debut in Italy 1934, 92 years ago.
Emam Ashour put Egypt ahead with a header, but an own goal by Mohamed Hany leveled the score for Australia before halftime.
In the penalty shootout, misses by Harry Souttar and Lucas Herrington doomed the Socceroos, while the African side flawlessly executed all their penalties.
In their previous three World Cup appearances—1934, 1990, and 2018—Egypt played seven matches without a win, managing just two draws and five losses.
Their first-ever World Cup victory came on June 21, when Egypt defeated New Zealand 3-1 in Vancouver. Now, the Pharaohs are set to face Argentina in the round of 16.
Argentina Struggles, but Messi Delivers
The defending champions had to dig deep at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami to edge out Cape Verde 3-2 in a match that extended into extra time.
Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute—his 20th World Cup goal and seventh in this tournament—cementing his status as the top scorer of the 2026 World Cup.
Cape Verde, in their World Cup debut, responded with goals from Deroy Duarte and Sidny Lopes Cabral, pushing the match into extra time with a 2-2 draw.
Lisandro Martínez netted Argentina's second goal in the 92nd minute, and the decisive blow came in the 103rd minute with an own goal by Diney Borges following a header by Cristian Romero.
The confirmed matchup between Argentina and Egypt in the round of 16 pits the defending champion against the tournament's African surprise package.
Colombia Dominant as They Prepare for Switzerland
At the Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Néstor Lorenzo's squad efficiently handled Ghana: Colombia won 1-0 with a goal from Jhon Arias before the 15-minute mark, set up by Luis Díaz.
The Cafeteros maintained control from start to finish without any defensive scares, although they failed to extend their lead despite creating numerous clear chances.
The only concern was the early injury to Jhon Córdoba, whose availability for the round of 16 is uncertain.
Colombia, who topped Group K with 7 points, will face Switzerland—who knocked out Algeria 2-0 with goals from Embolo and Ndoye—on July 7 in Vancouver.
FAQs on the 2026 World Cup Round of 16
How did Egypt make history in the World Cup?
Egypt made history by advancing to the round of 16 for the first time since their World Cup debut in 1934, after defeating Australia in a penalty shootout.
Who will Argentina face in the round of 16?
Argentina will face Egypt in the round of 16, following their victory over Cape Verde.
What challenge did Colombia face in their match against Ghana?
Colombia's main challenge in their game against Ghana was an early injury to Jhon Córdoba, which might affect his participation in the upcoming round.