The expanded 2026 World Cup format raised concerns about tournament quality dilution. While the final group-stage matches did little to dispel those worries, the last 32 promises a slate of heavyweight clashes. Brazil and Japan will face off in what could be one of the most compelling games of the tournament. Both teams have demonstrated quality and aim for a deep run. Germany are favourites against Paraguay, while the Netherlands vs Morocco in Monterrey could swing either way. With 16 teams eliminated from the group stage, challengers will quickly fall away from this point.
Brazil vs Japan
Time (ET): 1pm Stadium: Houston Stadium
How to watch: United States: Fox / Telemundo (Stream on Fubo); Canada: TSN (Stream); United Kingdom: ITV1 (Stream); Australia: SBS (Stream)
Brazil have grown into the tournament. Carlo Ancelotti's side struggled in their opener against Morocco, but subtle changes gave the Seleção more control in subsequent matches against Haiti and Scotland. Brazil may not dominate possession against Japan, but their quality in attacking transition makes them favourites. Japan have similarly shown their ability. Hajime Moriyasu's team can sit deep, control possession, or score from set pieces, as they did against the Netherlands. Japan should be taken seriously.
Player to watch: Vinícius Júnior, Brazil – With four goals in three games, the Real Madrid winger has been one of the most potent attackers at this World Cup. Ancelotti is getting the best out of Vinícius in the final third.
Germany vs Paraguay
Time (ET): 4.30pm Stadium: Boston Stadium
How to watch: United States: Fox / Telemundo (Stream on Fubo); Canada: TSN (Stream); United Kingdom: BBC One (Stream); Australia: SBS (Stream)
Germany lost to Ecuador in their final group game, but Julian Nagelsmann's side have shown enough to suggest they are still a contender. The former Bayern Munich boss has made good use of his bench, highlighting Germany's depth. Paraguay reached the last 32 as one of the eight best third-place teams. Their sole win in Group D came against Turkey, where they held on to a lead with 10 men for the entire second half. They will need that resolve again.
Player to watch: Felix Nmecha, Germany – This has been a breakout tournament for Nmecha, who has established himself as Germany's first-choice box-to-box operator, contributing a goal and an assist.
Netherlands vs Morocco
Time (ET): 9pm Stadium: Monterrey Stadium
How to watch: United States: Fox / Telemundo (Stream on Fubo); Canada: TSN (Stream); United Kingdom: ITV1 (Stream); Australia: SBS (Stream)
By scoring eight goals in their last two games, the Netherlands have laid down a marker. The introduction of Brian Brobbey as an orthodox focal point in attack has changed the dynamic of Ronald Koeman's side, making them as dangerous as any team left. Morocco have also made a positive impression. The 2022 semi-finalists are unbeaten in three games and have evolved their game, now able to control matches with the ball and boasting natural creators, though they lack an elite-level forward.
Player to watch: Brian Brobbey, Netherlands – The Sunderland forward is a physical threat and brings other Dutch attackers into the game. Cody Gakpo, for example, benefits from playing off Brobbey.
