World Cup knockout stage draws attention to favorites, underdogs and key storylines
Analysts highlight Argentina's favorable path, Germany's tough draw and emerging stars as the round of 32 unfolds, while the United States eyes a historic run.
The round of 32 kicked off with Canada defeating South Africa 1-0, giving the nation its first World Cup knockout win. As the bracket solidifies, commentators have identified several narratives shaping the tournament. Updated projections now list Argentina as the most likely champion, citing a comparatively easy route that avoids early clashes with Spain, France or England. The team will face Cape Verde before meeting either Australia or Egypt in the round of 16.
Lionel Messi, 39, continues to dominate for Argentina, having scored six goals in the group stage and remaining a contender for the Golden Boot. Colombia is praised for a favorable knockout path after a goalless draw with Portugal, while Germany faces a daunting round-of-16 matchup against France in hot Philadelphia conditions.
Young Ivory Coast winger Yan Diomandé, 19, has attracted attention for his dribbling and a reported five-year contract with Paris Saint-Germain. Spain, despite a lackluster eye test, boasts strong defensive metrics and could benefit from cooler venues in Los Angeles.
The Norway-Ivory Coast round-of-32 clash is highlighted for its potential to set up a Brazil encounter, and several future matchups are flagged, including a France-Germany duel in Philadelphia on July 4 and England versus Mexico in Mexico City on July 5.
Portugal carries significant pressure, especially on veteran Cristiano Ronaldo, who has yet to create a clear chance in three group matches. Morocco is described as the “team no one wants to play,” capable of upsetting higher-ranked opponents.
Cape Verde’s historic advance as a debutant is noted, while Austria and Ecuador are praised for their resilience in group play. France’s talent pool, featuring Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise, is considered deep enough to offset tactical shortcomings.
The United States, under new coach Mauricio Pochettino, faces a “golden opportunity” to capitalize on a strong roster and home-soil advantage, with a win over Bosnia-Herzegovina potentially leading to a quarterfinal against Belgium or Senegal and a broader surge in national interest.
