2026 World Cup: Netherlands, Brazil, USA and South Africa Learn Round of 32 Opponents

The knockout stage picture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is beginning to take shape, with at least four Round of 32 fixtures now confirmed.

Group F winners Netherlands have booked a meeting with Morocco after finishing the group stage strongly. The Dutch secured top spot following a 3-1 victory over Tunisia, while Morocco reached the knockout round after defeating Haiti 4-2.

Meanwhile, five-time champions Brazil will face Japan in the Round of 32. Carlo Ancelotti’s side advanced as group winners, while Japan secured their place after a 1-1 draw against Sweden.

Co-hosts USA will continue their World Cup journey against Bosnia and Herzegovina, while South Africa are set to battle Canada for a place in the next round.

The remaining Round of 32 fixtures will be confirmed once the group stage officially concludes on Saturday.

Opinion: The early knockout pairings already suggest an exciting second phase of the tournament. Matches like Netherlands vs Morocco and Brazil vs Japan could provide major tests, especially with teams from different football cultures battling for a place in the last 16. At this stage, small mistakes can end a World Cup dream, making every fixture even more important.