The Round of 16 continues with two heavyweight matchups that feel worthy of the later stages of the World Cup.
Brazil faces a dangerous Norway side led by Erling Haaland, while Mexico gets its dream home-soil showdown against England at Estadio Azteca. Both matches bring star power, history, pressure, and the kind of knockout-stage drama that can define a tournament.
At this point, there are no soft opponents left. Every team still standing has earned its place, and every mistake could be the difference between moving one step closer to the trophy or heading home.Brazil vs. Norway
Brazil faces its biggest challenge of the tournament, but what did everyone expect? After all, it is the Round of 16, where the competition just got really serious.
Norway has been viewed as one of America’s teams. Americans love their fans and the “Row,” but Americans have also always loved quality soccer and the Brazilian style.
The fans attending this game in New York are in for a huge treat. Norway has defeated two big-time African soccer nations, Ivory Coast and Senegal, and they are in no way fearing Brazil after also playing tournament favorite France in the group stage.
Brazil has suffered a couple of injuries to key players, which is really not all that surprising when teams at this stage of the tournament are playing their fifth intense, high-level game every four days. Muscles sometimes cannot recover quickly enough, even with hydration breaks.
Coach Ancelotti has plenty of players to choose from, and based on his last decision, the depth in the squad has been proven. Endrick came in as the main striker and has already shown his value by stepping up to the challenge against Japan in the Round of 32.
Norway has team chemistry and fitness going for them, along with a super striker who can finish in the blink of an eye. Erling Haaland is crazy good, strong, and fast.
Brazil’s world-class center back Gabriel will attempt to contain Haaland. This bitter rivalry will continue on the international stage, as Gabriel, the Arsenal defender, will be looking to become the first in the competition to stop the Manchester City striker from finding the back of the net.
In the Round of 16, competition is tight and there is no room for mistakes. Tactical approach takes on new legs, as witnessed in the possession percentage in the France vs. Paraguay game. France dominated the ball with a ridiculous 79% to 21% advantage in a unique but understandable approach deployed by Paraguay.
This will not be the case with Brazil vs. Norway, since it is a more balanced game where an upset victory over Brazil may just be understandable in global opinion.
An upset is an upset, and Brazil knows what is at stake. They also have plenty of respect for the Vikings. It is not going to be so easy to do their samba dancing with the ball at their feet through the Norwegian defense, but Brazil’s creativity and passion can be delivered in other ways.
Pro Paul’s Pick: Brazil advances.
Mexico vs. England
If there is ever a time for Mexico to defeat the mighty Three Lions in a major tournament, it is now, at the 2026 World Cup, inside Estadio Azteca, their backyard playground.
They have an entire country, and half the world, hoping for an upset.
England remembers the last time they played at Estadio Azteca in a World Cup. It was almost 40 years to the date when Maradona shockingly got away with a hand, or fist, header that contributed to England’s elimination.
This game will be one to remember, answering whether England chokes to past haunting fears or channels those past knockout blows to inspire and motivate them to take down a spicy-hot Mexican squad filled with talent.
Left-footed center back Johan Vásquez anchors the back line, with veteran midfielder Edson Álvarez controlling the pace and tempo. Then there is new sensational rising star 17-year-old attacking midfielder Gilberto Mora, who made global soccer history as the youngest player at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mora has already attracted bids from top EPL and La Liga clubs.
The Three Lions are laser-focused on the task at hand. Knowing the challenges of the crowd and altitude, anticipate they will come roaring from the opening whistle with their sharpshooter Harry Kane.
England has a complete team from front to back. Key players include Jude Bellingham in control of the midfield and speedy winger Bukayo Saka. The bench is stacked and does not miss a beat when entering the match, often giving England a boost when needed.
If Mexico is going to take out England, they are going to have to snuff out the fire that comes with Kane.
Mexico has a perfect record, winning all four matches, scoring eight goals, and conceding none so far. The stars could not be more aligned for Mexico.
If or when England drops a goal on Mexico, how will El Tri respond? And what happens if Mexico strikes first? Do the hydration breaks create altitude breaks and offer opportunities for coaches to change strategies?
Finally, it must be said that this is a game to remember. There is no room for any mistakes. This matchup is simply that good.
