The playoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to defy predictions. The latest matchday of the Round of 16 delivered one of the tournament's biggest surprises: Brazil lost to Norway 1:2 and exited the World Cup. England, on the other hand, survived a tough match against Mexico and won 3:2.
Today, the intrigue will intensify even further. In the evening, the Iberian derby between Portugal and Spain will take place, and at night, the USA will face Belgium. These are not just matches for a spot in the quarterfinals; they are games that could completely change the bracket and the list of favorites for the 2026 World Cup.
After Brazil's exit, the bookmakers' odds for the tournament winner have changed again. Norway has become the main revelation of the playoffs, England has strengthened its position, and the match between Portugal and Spain already looks like one of the central fixtures of the entire tournament. Current odds for advancing further, totals, spreads, and the winner of the 2026 World Cup can be viewed on Olimpbet.kz.
Round of 16 Match Results
| Match | Score | Main Storyline |
|---|---|---|
| Brazil vs. Norway | 1:2 | Norway eliminated one of the tournament's main favorites and advanced to the quarterfinals. |
| Mexico vs. England | 2:3 | England withstood the pressure from the tournament hosts and advanced in a dramatic match. |
Brazil vs. Norway 1:2: The Main Sensation of the Playoffs
Brazil's exit has become the most shocking event of the current stage of the 2026 World Cup. The team, which many considered one of the main contenders for the title, could not cope with Norway—a team that relied on physicality, discipline, and maximum efficiency.
Brazil had more possession and tried to play offensively, but Norway did not crumble under pressure. The Scandinavian team maintained the pace, imposed battles in key areas, and capitalized on its chances better than its opponent.
This result changes the perception of the entire tournament. If earlier Norway was considered dangerous but still a dark horse, now it is a full-fledged participant in the fight for the later stages. The victory over Brazil is not an accidental episode but proof that the team is ready to compete against the most prestigious opponents.
Why Brazil Exited
The main problem for Brazil was a lack of control at crucial moments. The team created pressure but too often faced a tight defense and did not always make the right decisions in the final third of the field.
Norway, on the other hand, played simpler and more pragmatically. In playoff matches, this is often more important than beautiful possession. One quick transition, one set piece, one won episode—and the favorite finds itself in a situation where it needs to save itself rather than dictate terms.
Mexico vs. England 2:3: The Favorite Withstood the Pressure
The second match of the day was no less emotional. England defeated Mexico 3:2, but this victory came extremely hard for the team. Mexico played at home, felt the support of the crowd, and did everything to turn the match into a nerve-wracking battle.
England once again showed character. The team did not always look perfect but managed to withstand the pressure, score three goals, and advance to the quarterfinals. For the playoffs, this is an important indicator: at this stage, it is not necessary to win beautifully; the main thing is to find a way to move forward.
Mexico leaves the tournament with its head held high. The team put up a fight against one of the favorites, scored twice, and kept the intrigue until the last moment. But England was more precise in key episodes.
Quarterfinal: Norway vs. England
After victories over Brazil and Mexico, Norway and England will face off in the quarterfinals. This will be a match of two different football philosophies: English control and individual class against Norwegian physicality, vertical play, and confidence after a sensational victory.
For England, this is a dangerous opponent. Norway has already proven that it can play against favorites and is not afraid of big names. For Norway, the match against England is a chance to turn the sensation into a full-fledged medal quest.
Today: Portugal vs. Spain
The main match of today is Portugal against Spain. The Iberian derby in the World Cup playoffs is a confrontation that could easily have been a semifinal or final. But the bracket has brought the teams together already.
Spain approaches the match after a confident victory over Austria and looks like one of the most cohesive teams in the tournament. Portugal advanced past Croatia through drama, a late goal, and a nerve-wracking finish. In terms of quality of play, Spain currently seems more stable, but Portugal has the individual class capable of deciding any match.
The match starts at 22:00 Moscow time. The main intrigue: can Portugal withstand the Spanish pressing and tempo, or will Spain confirm its status as one of the main favorites of the 2026 World Cup?
USA vs. Belgium: A Night of Great Challenge
The second match of the day is the USA against Belgium. It starts at 03:00 Moscow time. For the American team, this is one of the main matches of the tournament: the team is playing at home, has received a powerful emotional boost, and now wants to prove that it can go even further.
Belgium remains a dangerous opponent. The team has already shown character in the playoffs and knows how to survive in difficult scenarios. But the USA will play with the support of the crowd, and this factor could become a significant advantage.
Teams Already in the Quarterfinals
| Team | How They Advanced | Next Opponent |
|---|---|---|
| Morocco | Victory over Canada 3:0 | France |
| France | Victory over Paraguay 1:0 | Morocco |
| Norway | Victory over Brazil 2:1 | England |
| England | Victory over Mexico 3:2 | Norway |
BET RATING Favorites Index After Brazil's Exit
| Team | Status | Dynamics |
|---|---|---|
| France | One of the main favorites of the tournament | Up |
| Spain | Can enhance its favorite status with a victory over Portugal | Up |
| England | Survived a tough match, but questions about the game remain | Neutral |
| Norway | Main sensation of the playoffs after victory over Brazil | Sharp up |
| Morocco | Confidently advancing through the bracket and looking dangerous again | Up |
| Brazil | Exited after losing to Norway | Out |
What to Consider When Betting on Today's Matches
After Brazil's exit, it has become clear: in the 2026 World Cup, you cannot evaluate a match solely based on the team's status. Portugal vs. Spain and USA vs. Belgium require deep analysis: form, playing style, pressure, physical condition, and the ability to withstand key episodes.
On Olimpbet.kz, you can follow the odds for the Round of 16 matches, advancing further, totals, spreads, both teams to score, and long-term bets on the World Cup winner.
BET RATING Prediction
In the match between Portugal and Spain, a slight advantage seems to lie with Spain: the team is more stable, better controls the pace, and is currently on the rise. But Portugal remains dangerous due to its individual class and experience.
In the pair of USA vs. Belgium, much will depend on the first goal. If the USA scores first, the home stadium could turn the match into an emotional storm. If Belgium quickly takes control, the Americans will have to open up.
FAQ: 2026 World Cup, Round of 16 Matches
How did Brazil and Norway play?
Norway defeated Brazil 2:1 and advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup.
How did the Mexico vs. England match end?
England defeated Mexico 3:2 and will play against Norway in the quarterfinals.
What matches are taking place today in the 2026 World Cup?
Today, the matches Portugal vs. Spain at 22:00 Moscow time and USA vs. Belgium at 03:00 Moscow time will take place.
Who has already advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup?
France, Morocco, Norway, and England have already advanced to the quarterfinals.
Conclusion
The Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup continues to surprise. Norway eliminated Brazil and became the main revelation of the playoffs, England survived a tough match against Mexico and advanced, and today we await two more major confrontations—Portugal against Spain and the USA against Belgium.
The tournament is entering its hottest phase. Stay tuned for fresh news, analysis, and predictions on BET RATING, and check the current odds for the 2026 World Cup on Olimpbet.kz.
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