Co-hosts Mexico gave their passionate supporters plenty to cheer about in Mexico City. Norway and France also progressed with impressive victories.

The day’s action got underway in Dallas, Texas, where Norway claimed a hard-fought 2–1 win over Ivory Coast in a fiercely contested Round of 32 clash. The Norwegians once again showcased their attacking quality, but they were made to work for every inch by a determined Ivory Coast side that refused to back down. The Elephants created several promising opportunities in search of an equaliser, yet Norway defended resolutely in the closing stages to book a last-16 showdown with Brazil.France then underlined why they remain one of the favourites to lift the trophy with a polished 3–0 victory over Sweden in New York/New Jersey. Les Bleus were in complete control from the opening whistle, dominating possession and creating chances at will. 

Kylian Mbappé was once again at the heart of France’s attacking brilliance as the former world champions combined pace, precision and clinical finishing to outclass the Swedes. Equally impressive was their defensive display, leaving Sweden with little room to threaten. France now turn their attention to a Round of 16 encounter against surprise package Paraguay.

Kylian Mbappé. Photo: FIFA

The loudest celebrations of the day came at a packed Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where Mexico thrilled the home crowd with a convincing 2–0 victory over Ecuador. Inspired by the deafening support from the stands, the hosts played with energy, confidence and attacking intent from the outset. 

An early breakthrough settled any nerves before a second goal ensured there would be no late drama. Ecuador battled bravely but struggled to match Mexico’s intensity as the hosts advanced to the Round of 16, where they will meet the winners of the clash between England and DR Congo.

Norway, France and Mexico now join Brazil, Paraguay, Morocco and Canada among the nations safely through to the Round of 16, with the knockout picture becoming clearer as the tournament edges closer to the quarter-finals.

Attention now shifts to another thrilling day of Round of 32 football on Wednesday, with three more places in the last 16 up for grabs.

England face Democratic Republic of Congo in Atlanta at 18:00, with the Three Lions entering the match one of the outside favourites. However, DR Congo has emerged as one of the tournament’s surprise stories and have shown they possess the organisation and resilience to trouble any opponent, just ask Portugal. England’s star-studded attack will need to be at its best against a disciplined side chasing one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history.

Later at 22:00, Belgium takes on Senegal in Seattle, Washington, in what promises to be one of the most intriguing fixtures of the Round of 32. 

Belgium boasts an abundance of attacking talent, but Senegal have impressed throughout the competition with their pace, physicality and tactical discipline, making this a contest that could go either way.

In the early hours of Thursday, at 02:00, in San Francisco, California, the hosts, the United States face Bosnia and Herzegovina. Backed by a vocal home crowd, the Americans will look to use home advantage to continue their campaign. 

Bosnia and Herzegovina, though, have exceeded expectations during the group stage and will be eager to extend their memorable World Cup journey. The winners will advance to face either Belgium or Senegal in the Round of 16.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek sm