As the 2026 FIFA World Cup enters its intense Round of 32, football fans are witnessing thrilling matchups and unexpected performances. On Friday, July 3rd, the tournament continues with three crucial matches that will determine which teams advance to the next stage. The expanded 48-team format, featuring 104 matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is providing ample drama and showcasing the global appeal of the beautiful game.
The day’s fixtures include Australia facing Egypt in Dallas, Argentina taking on the Cinderella story of the tournament, Cape Verde, in Miami, and Colombia meeting Ghana in Kansas City. Argentina, the defending champions, will see Lionel Messi return to the pitch for their match against Cape Verde, a nation making history as the smallest to ever reach the knockout stage. Despite their underdog status, Cape Verde has impressed with their organized defense and deep belief, making this a highly anticipated clash.
Meanwhile, concerns are mounting over extreme heat impacting matches, particularly an afternoon knockout game in Philadelphia between France and Paraguay. Heat indexes in the eastern and central U.S. are expected to soar, with temperatures potentially reaching 115°F (46.11°C). This has raised questions about player safety and the potential for slower, less intense games, with scientists noting the influence of climate change on these conditions.
The Round of 32, a new addition to this year’s expanded tournament, runs until July 3rd, with winners progressing to the Round of 16, which begins on July 4th. The tournament, a spectacle of 104 matches, will conclude on July 19th, with the knockout stages promising further excitement and high stakes as teams battle for a place in the quarterfinals, set to run from July 9th to 11th.
Fans can catch all the action on FOX and FOX Sports, with streaming options available on the FOX One and FOX Sports apps. The ongoing tournament has already seen dramatic encounters, including Portugal’s narrow victory over Croatia and Spain’s convincing performance against Austria, setting the stage for a captivating Round of 16 and beyond.
