World Cup Round of 32 Highlights: Spain Seeks Knockout Victory, Ronaldo Faces Croatia
The 2026 World Cup knockout stage moves forward on Thursday with three key Round of 32 games. Spain, the reigning European champions, are aiming to secure their first knockout round victory in 16 years. Their last success came during their 2010 World Cup-winning campaign. After cruising through Group H with two wins and a draw, Spain faces an Austria team that hasn't progressed beyond the group stage since 1954.
Upsets have shaken this tournament already. Could Austria pull off another surprise against a global soccer powerhouse?
Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal Take on Croatia
Later on Thursday, Portugal meets Croatia in Toronto. Cristiano Ronaldo has played in eight World Cup knockout matches but has yet to score in any. Both he and his team hope to change that. Croatia recovered from an opening loss to England by winning their next two games.
Portugal controls possession well but has struggled to finish, managing only 12 shots on target across three games. The victor here will face either Spain or Austria in the Round of 16.
Switzerland Battles Algeria for a Spot in the Round of 16
At night, Switzerland takes on Algeria in Vancouver. Algeria hasn’t defeated a European team at the World Cup since 1982. They’ll need to contain Switzerland’s Johan Manzambi, who has scored three times so far. Switzerland remains unbeaten in nine matches under coach Murat Yakin.
The winner advances to play the survivor of the Colombia vs. Ghana match in the next round.
