Nick Wright, Chris Broussard, and Kevin Wildes make their predictions for the Knockout Stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including Spain beating Argentina in the Final, and France dominating the tournament.

Cape Verde defender Pico Lopes, who plays for League of Ireland side Shamrock Rovers, says it will be a "surreal feeling" to come up against Lionel Messi and World Cup holders Argentina in the last-32 knockout stage of the World Cup.

For the most part, Argentina’s World Cup team has kept a low profile in Kansas City, where it has made its base camp. However, we have seen multiple videos of the team grilling meat, which undoubtedly makes them honorary Kansas Citians.

Ryan Mendes, captain of Cape Verde World Cup team, is under investigation for alleged rape in March in New Zealand.

With Group J already secured, defending champions Argentina approach their final 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage clash against Jordan with strategic caution at AT&T Stadium. As they look ahead to the round of 32,

Before we look ahead to World Cup knockout round, here's a look at players who have stood out so far. The usual suspects and some surprises.