World Cup Quarterfinals Near as Co‑Hosts Crash Out

Co‑host nations bowed out in round of 16

The three countries that hosted the tournament—Canada, Mexico and the United States—all fell in the last 16. Canada was crushed 3‑0 by Morocco, Mexico lost 3‑2 to England in a thriller, while the U.S. was beaten 4‑1 by Belgium. This marks the first time since the modern World Cup began that none of the co‑hosts advanced beyond the first knockout round.

Ronaldo and Neymar say goodbye after Portugal, Brazil exits

Portugal, ranked fifth in the FIFA list, and Brazil, sixth, were both eliminated, ending the international careers of Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar. Their departures close a chapter for two of the sport’s biggest stars, who together have scored more than 400 goals for their nations. The loss of the top two seeds removes two of the tournament’s premier talents and reshapes the knockout field.

Spain, France and Argentina survive to quarterfinals

Spain and France have kept their hopes alive, while Argentina will face Egypt on Tuesday, July 7, for a spot in the quarter‑finals. The Argentine‑Egypt clash adds intrigue to an already unpredictable knockout stage, where only three powerhouses remain. With Spain, France and Argentina still in the picture, the competition is primed for high‑stakes matches.

Photos capture unforgettable World Cup moments

US forward #20 Folarin Balogun celebrates after netting his team’s third goal against Paraguay at the Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood on June 12, 2026. The image captures the jubilant moment as Balogun lifts his arms with teammates. It highlights a pivotal strike in a Group D showdown that decided the final points.

Folarin Balogun #20 of the United States scores his team’s third goal during the 2026 World Cup Group D match between USA and Paraguay at Los Angeles Stadium on June 12, 2026. The shot reflects the precision of the American attack, while the crowd’s reaction shows the intensity of the contest.

Cesar Samudio #12 of Panama tries to block a shot from Giovanni Reyna #7 of the United States, who scores the fourth goal in a decisive 4‑1 win over Paraguay. This snapshot shows the frantic effort of the Panama keeper and the unstoppable momentum of the American offense.

US midfielder #07 Giovanni Reyna scores his team’s fourth goal during the 2026 World Cup Group D match against Paraguay. The image freezes the instant of celebration, emphasizing Reyna’s role as a clutch performer in a high‑stakes group game.

The United States celebrates the fourth goal by midfielder #07 Giovanni Reyna in a dominant performance over Paraguay. Teammates surround Reyna, illustrating the collective joy that comes with a decisive victory in a World Cup Group D match.

Eliminated teams’ FIFA rankings

• Portugal – 5
• Brazil – 6
• Mexico – 14
• United States – 17
• Canada – 30
• Paraguay – 41