Knockout Bracket Predictions: From Round of 32 to Final
Our complete knockout stage predictions, from the new round of 32 through to the final at MetLife Stadium.
With the expanded 48-team format introducing a round of 32 for the first time, the path to the final is longer than ever. Here's our complete knockout prediction:
Round of 32 Highlights
: - Brazil cruise past a third-place qualifier - USA edge a tough matchup on home soil - Japan upset a group winner in extra time - Norway advance behind a Haaland brace
Round of 16
: - France eliminate Japan in a classic - Brazil's attacking depth overwhelms their opponent - Argentina survive a scare from a European opponent - England's Bellingham scores the winner in a tense affair
Quarter-finals
: - France vs Spain: The European heavyweights collide. Mbappé vs Yamal. France advance on penalties. - Brazil vs Netherlands: A repeat of classic World Cup encounters. Brazil's attack proves too much. - Argentina vs Norway: Messi vs Haaland. The old king holds off the new king. Argentina through. - England vs Portugal: Tuchel's tactical mastery prevails. Bellingham outshines Ronaldo's farewell.
Semi-finals
: - France vs Brazil: The two deepest squads in the tournament. Mbappé's moment of magic settles it. - Argentina vs England: A repeat of the classic rivalry. Messi's final masterpiece — a goal and an assist.
Final — July 19, MetLife Stadium
: France vs Argentina. A rematch of the 2022 final. Mbappé vs Messi, one last time. In what would be the most-watched sporting event in history, Argentina's title defense falls just short. France win their third star, Mbappé scores the winner, and the torch is officially passed.