The Round of 16 lineup at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is complete after Colombia edged Ghana 1-0 to claim the final knockout spot, capping an eventful day that also saw Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha produce one of the tournament’s most memorable individual performances.
Even though Cape Verde’s campaign came to an end against defending champions Argentina, it was impossible to ignore the contribution of the 40-year-old goalkeeper. Vozinha turned back the clock with eight brilliant saves, frustrating the Argentines time and again and keeping his side in the contest for as long as possible. His display quickly became one of the major talking points of the day despite the result.
Argentina, however, did enough to book a Round of 16 meeting with Egypt.
Colombia also had plenty to celebrate after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ghana sealed the final knockout ticket. The slim win was all the South Americans needed to extend their World Cup journey, and they will now face Switzerland for a place in the quarter-finals.
The completion of the group stage has also confirmed the remaining Round of 16 fixtures. Portugal will lock horns with neighbours Spain in one of the standout ties, while co-hosts Canada face Morocco. France have been paired with Paraguay, England will battle Mexico, Brazil take on Norway, and the United States square off against Belgium.
With the field now trimmed to 16 teams, the fight for the World Cup enters its most unforgiving stage. Every match is now a winner-takes-all affair, and with former champions, surprise packages and host nations still in the mix, the race for football’s biggest prize is only getting more intense.