The 2026 FIFA World Cup continues Sunday, July 5, with two high-profile Round of 16 matches: Brazil vs. Norway and Mexico vs. England.
Brazil and Norway are set to kick off at 4:00 p.m. ET from New York New Jersey Stadium. Mexico and England will follow at 8:00 p.m. ET from Mexico City Stadium.
Brazil vs. Norway
Brazil advanced to the Round of 16 after finishing first in their group and defeating Japan 2-1 in the Round of 32. Gabriel Martinelli scored the winning goal in stoppage time, marking the latest winning goal in normal time in World Cup knockout stage history since 1966. Vinícius Júnior leads Brazil with four goals in the tournament.
Norway secured their first-ever knockout stage victory by beating Ivory Coast 2-1 in the Round of 32. Erling Haaland scored the decisive goal in the 86th minute and has five goals in the tournament so far, putting him in contention for the Golden Boot.
Brazil has maintained strong possession throughout the tournament, averaging 56.3 minutes per game and conceding only two goals in four matches. However, they showed vulnerability to quick counter-attacks against Japan, a space where Haaland excels. Haaland's ability to exploit the space behind Brazil's defense presents a key tactical battle. Norway, despite not needing extended possession, relies on Haaland's finishing ability to create scoring opportunities.
Mexico vs. England
Mexico has enjoyed a dominant run, winning all four of their matches, scoring eight goals, and maintaining a clean sheet in both the group stage and their Round of 32 victory over Ecuador. Julián Quiñones leads Mexico with three goals, and Raúl Jiménez has added two, bringing his international total to 47 for Mexico.
England reached the Round of 16 for the third consecutive tournament. Harry Kane has been instrumental, scoring five goals, including both in a comeback win against DR Congo. Kane became the first English player to score twice in a World Cup knockout match since Gary Lineker in 1990.
The match hinges on Jude Bellingham's ability to find space between Mexico's midfield and defense. Bellingham serves as England's primary link, dropping deep to control play while also making late runs into the box. England has created 53 chances in four games, many originating from Bellingham's play.
Mexico's defensive discipline has been a key factor in their success, conceding no goals thus far. Their compact shape aims to close down space before attacks reach the penalty area. Observing England's initial possessions in the middle third will indicate whether Bellingham can dictate the game or be stifled by Mexico's defensive structure.
Kane, considered one of the top center forwards of his generation, has often been England's savior. While facing a highly focused Mexican defense, Kane's ability to score early could ease pressure and the effects of altitude for England. Even if contained as a scorer, his skill in dropping into midfield to create plays remains a significant threat. Should Kane struggle, England could face a difficult match.