World Cup Last-32 Continues with France, Sweden, Ivory Coast and Norway Chasing Round-of-16 Spots

The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage continues today with two Round-of-32 fixtures as France take on Sweden, while Ivory Coast face Norway in matches that will determine the next teams to advance to the last 16.
France head into their clash against Sweden as one of the tournament favourites after an impressive group-stage campaign. The former world champions will be looking to maintain their momentum against a determined Swedish side aiming to pull off one of the biggest upsets of the competition.
Later, African champions Ivory Coast will face Norway in what is expected to be a tightly contested encounter. Ivory Coast are seeking to extend their historic World Cup run, while Norway will look to the firepower of striker Erling Haaland as they bid to secure a place in the next round.
With the knockout phase offering no second chances, both fixtures promise high-intensity football as teams battle to keep their World Cup dreams alive. Victory will send the winners into the Round of 16, while defeat will bring their tournament to an immediate end.
The matches come after an eventful opening phase of the knockout stage that has already produced dramatic moments, surprise results and standout individual performances, setting the stage for another thrilling day of action.
As the race for football’s biggest prize intensifies, fans around the world will be watching to see whether the favourites continue their march toward the title or if underdogs can spring another surprise on the global stage.

Source BBC NEWS