A Weekend of High Drama at the 2026 World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 delivered everything fans could ask for — stunning upsets, emotional farewells, and thrilling knockout football across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. As the tournament enters its quarterfinal stage, the remaining contenders are positioning themselves for what promises to be a gripping run to the final at MetLife Stadium on July 19.
Spain 1-0 Portugal: Ronaldo’s World Cup Journey Ends
The headline match of the round pitted Iberian rivals Spain and Portugal against each other at Dallas Stadium, and it delivered a dramatic finish that will be remembered for years. Substitute Mikel Merino scored a stoppage-time winner in the 90+1st minute, firing past Diogo Costa after a clever through-ball from fellow substitute Ferran Torres to send Spain through to the quarterfinals with a 1-0 victory.
The result marked the end of an era. Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41 years old, played his final World Cup match for Portugal. The only man to score in six consecutive World Cups walked off the pitch with a stoic expression, briefly acknowledging the crowd before disappearing down the tunnel. “I’ve given everything, I’ve given my best, and I leave with a clear conscience,” Ronaldo said after the match.
Spain’s win sets up a tantalizing quarterfinal clash, with Luis de la Fuente’s side looking every bit the European champions they proved to be in 2024. Despite a largely tepid performance, Spain’s depth proved decisive — both the goal scorer and provider came off the bench.
Belgium 4-1 USA: Red Devils Rout Host Nation
In Seattle, Belgium delivered a masterclass in counter-attacking football, thumping the United States 4-1 to end the host nation’s World Cup dream. The match was marred by a controversial red card to US striker Folarin Balogun, whose suspension had been lifted just days earlier in a highly scrutinized decision.
Christian Pulisic exited the match with a potential foot injury, compounding a disastrous evening for the Americans. Belgium’s Kevin De Bruyne orchestrated the midfield, while Romelu Lukaku and the Red Devils’ attack punished every US defensive lapse. Belgium’s social media team even trolled the USA and FIFA after the dominant win, posting “Overturn this” — a pointed reference to Balogun’s reinstatement controversy.
For the USMNT, the wait for a quarterfinal appearance extends to at least another four years. Gregg Berhalter’s side had shown promise in the group stage, but the gulf in class against a battle-hardened Belgian outfit was evident from the opening whistle.
England 3-2 Mexico: Three Lions Survive Azteca Test
England produced one of the performances of the tournament in Mexico City, defeating co-hosts Mexico 3-2 at the iconic Estadio Azteca. The Three Lions played more than 30 minutes with 10 men after a red card, yet still held on to secure a memorable victory in a stadium where Mexico had lost only two competitive matches in history before this tournament.
Elliot Anderson was among the goalscorers in a match that ebbed and flowed. Mexico’s Raúl Jiménez scored from the penalty spot after a VAR review to bring the hosts back to 3-2, but England held firm defensively to progress to the quarterfinals. The win hands England their first-ever competitive victory at the Azteca, exorcising decades of demons at one of football’s most intimidating venues.
Brazil Shocked by Norway in Stunning Upset
One of the biggest shocks of the tournament came at MetLife Stadium, where Norway eliminated five-time champions Brazil. Erling Haaland and company pulled off a stunning victory, sending Neymar and the Brazilian contingent home in the Round of 16 for the second consecutive World Cup.
The result sent shockwaves through the betting markets. Norway’s World Cup winner odds, which sat at 45-1 before the tournament, have now been slashed dramatically to 17-1 as they emerge as genuine dark horses. Robert Lewandowski’s Poland and Lamine Yamal’s Spain also remain in the hunt as the tournament opens up.
Quarterfinal Matchups Taking Shape
As the Round of 16 concludes, the quarterfinal bracket is taking shape with some mouthwatering ties on the horizon. Spain, Belgium, and England have already booked their spots, while Argentina — the defending champions — and France remain in strong form.
Current World Cup winner odds place France (+170) as the clear favorites, with Argentina (+425) and England (+520) trailing. Spain have surged to +700 after dispatching their Iberian rivals, while Norway’s remarkable run has them at +1700 and climbing.
Betting Analysis and Predictions
The Round of 16 has been a profitable round for those who spotted the trends. Spain’s -120 odds to qualify proved excellent value against a Portugal side that had underperformed throughout the group stage. Belgium’s moneyline at +190 against the USA also rewarded sharp bettors who recognized the gap in tournament experience.
As we move into the quarterfinals, several key betting angles emerge:
Spain’s depth is their greatest asset. The fact that both Merino and Torres came off the bench to combine for the winner shows Spain have match-winners throughout the squad. Spain’s “to lift the trophy” odds at +700 offer genuine value given their tournament pedigree and favorable path.
Belgium’s experience matters. The Red Devils have been here before. Their core of De Bruyne, Lukaku, and Courtois has been together for a decade, and their 4-1 statement win against a host nation shows they are peaking at the right time.
England’s resilience is underrated. Playing with 10 men for 30 minutes away at the Azteca and still winning speaks volumes about Gareth Southgate’s squad depth and mentality. England at +520 to win the tournament could look generous if they navigate their quarterfinal.
MK Sports: Your Home for World Cup 2026 Betting
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The 2026 World Cup is delivering drama, upsets, and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss a minute of the action — and don’t miss the best odds in the business.