2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 Predictions

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The World Cup enters its business end with 16 teams remaining and every match now carrying the pressure of win or go home. Heavyweights collide, underdogs look to continue their dream runs, and several mouth-watering ties headline the knockout stage.

Here are my predictions for every Round of 16 fixture.

Canada vs Morocco

Tip: Canada 1-3 Morocco
Goal Scorer Tip: Chemsdine Talbi

Morocco have quietly been one of the most complete teams in the tournament, combining defensive discipline with devastating counter-attacking football. Canada have enjoyed a historic run to the knockout stages, but Morocco's quality across the pitch should prove too much.

Paraguay vs France

Tip: Paraguay 0-3 France
Goal Scorer Tip: Ousmane Dembele

Paraguay deserve enormous credit after eliminating Germany, but France look unstoppable. Their attack is playing with frightening confidence and it's difficult to see anyone matching them at the moment, especially not Paraguay who will invite pressure and get shoved off the ball in attack.

Brazil vs Norway

Tip: Brazil 3-2 Norway
Goal Scorer Tip: Erling Haaland

Norway have been one of the stories of the tournament and possess one of the world's most dangerous forwards in Erling Haaland. They'll trouble Brazil, but the five-time world champions should have just enough quality to edge an entertaining contest. There should be plenty of goals and plenty of drama in this one, a really good encounter predicted!

Mexico vs England

Tip: 1-1 (England win on penalties)
Goal Scorer Tip: Harry Kane

One of the ties of the round. Mexico will enjoy huge home support and high altitude, and England haven't been entirely convincing, but tournament football often comes down to moments. England's experience should see them survive via another nerve-wracking penalty shootout. This one really could go either way, Mexico still have not conceded a goal.

Portugal vs Spain

Tip: Portugal 2-3 Spain
Goalscorer Tip: Marc Cucurella

An Iberian derby with quarter-final football on the line. This is the game of the round on paper. Portugal have looked dangerous at times throughout the tournament, but Spain's control in possession and attacking depth give them a slight edge in what should be one of the best matches of the World Cup so far. Instant classic written all over this game.

United States vs Belgium

Prediction: United States 1-2 Belgium
Goal Scorer Tip: Kevin De Bruyne

The hosts have exceeded expectations and will be backed by a passionate crowd, but Belgium's experience and quality in big moments should prove decisive. Expect a tight contest with Kevin De Bruyne and Leandro Trossard pulling the strings. No Folarin Balogun will also hurt the USA's attacking chances, with Belgium's attack finally clicking.

Argentina vs Egypt

Prediction: Argentina 2-0 Egypt
Goal Scorer Tip: Lionel Messi

Egypt earned their place here by eliminating Australia but were far from perfect, but Argentina continue to build momentum despite a close game against Cape Verde. With Lionel Messi leading the attack in this form, the reigning champions should progress comfortably.

Switzerland vs Colombia

Prediction: 2-2 (Colombia win on penalties)
Goal Scorer Tip: Luis Diaz

One of the toughest matches to predict. Switzerland's defensive structure has been outstanding, while Colombia possess the attacking quality to unlock almost any defence. After 120 minutes, expect penalties to separate the two sides. The attacking intent of both sides could produce plenty of goals.

Predicted Quarter-Final Matchups:

Morocco v France
Belgium v Spain
Brazil v England
Colombia v Argentina