World Cup Highlights: USMNT Begins Knockout Stage; Can DR Congo Upset England?
The 2026 World Cup knockout stage continues with three crucial Round of 32 matches on Wednesday, July 1. Fans will be glued to screens as the USMNT kicks off their knockout campaign and some underdog stories could unfold.
England vs. DR Congo
Date & Time: Wednesday, July 1 | 12 p.m. ETLocation: AtlantaTV: FoxOdds: England -850, DR Congo +540
DR Congo, one of the tournament’s surprise teams, has earned its place in the knockout round after a gritty group performance that saw them rally from behind multiple times. They face England, who topped Group L and bring a strong squad led by manager Thomas Tuchel. England should have Declan Rice back in action after he was rested due to a minor calf issue. Reece James and Jarell Quansah remain doubtful because of hamstring and ankle injuries respectively.
DR Congo, coached by Sébastien Desabre, thrives on comebacks, having overturned deficits in every group match. Their resilience means they can't be taken lightly. The winner moves forward to challenge Mexico at Estadio Azteca on Sunday.
Belgium vs. Senegal
Date & Time: Wednesday, July 1 | 4 p.m. ETLocation: SeattleTV: FS1Odds: Belgium -178, Senegal +144
The Belgian golden generation looks for one last deep run in this World Cup. Veterans like Thibaut Courtois, Kevin De Bruyne, and Romelu Lukaku, who helped Belgium finish third in 2018, lead the Red Devils into the knockout phase after winning Group G. Senegal, despite a shaky start losing two group games, punched their ticket by thrashing Iraq 5-0 in their final group match. Their inconsistent performances make them a tricky opponent.
The victor will advance to meet either the United States or Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 6 in Seattle.
USA vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Date & Time: Wednesday, July 1 | 8 p.m. ETLocation: Santa Clara, CaliforniaTV: FoxOdds: USA -750, Bosnia +500
The host nation, the United States, is set to begin their knockout journey after topping Group D. Mauricio Pochettino’s squad will benefit from home support at Levi's Stadium. After resting several starters in the final group match against Türkiye, the lineup that faced Australia is expected to start. Bosnia and Herzegovina have shown grit to reach this stage, having ousted Italy in the playoffs and finishing third in Group B with a draw against co-host Canada and a win over Qatar.
The winner here will face the survivor of the Belgium-Senegal match.
