The 2026 FIFA World Cup reaches the conclusion of its Round of 32 this Friday, July 3, as the tournament transitions into the knockout stages. Held across Mexico, Canada, and the United States, this expanded edition features 48 nations competing for the title, with matches broadcast in Spain via DAZN and select games available on free-to-air television through TVE’s La 1.
The 2026 World Cup Format and Expansion
This year’s tournament features 48 teams and a total of 104 matches. The competition, which began on June 11 and concludes on July 19, is jointly hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States. The tournament features a Round of 32—or dieciseisavos de final—as the start of the knockout phase. The top two teams from each of the 12 groups, supplemented by the eight highest-ranked third-place finishers, qualified for this stage.
Friday’s Schedule and Tournament Progression
Friday, July 3, serves as the final day of the Round of 32. Following the conclusion of these fixtures, the tournament moves immediately into the Round of 16 on Saturday. Notable nations remaining in the competition include Morocco and France, both of whom have secured their progression to the next stage. The tournament is spread across three host nations.
Broadcasting and Viewing Information
In Spain, fans can access the full tournament schedule through digital and traditional broadcast channels. DAZN holds the rights to televise every match of the 2026 World Cup, with coverage accessible via the DAZN Mundial channels on platforms such as Movistar Plus+ and Orange TV. For viewers seeking free-to-air options, TVE, through La 1, has committed to broadcasting all matches involving the Spanish national team, as well as one marquee fixture per matchday, through La 1 until the final.
Notable Absences and Tournament Debuts
Italy failed to qualify for the third consecutive tournament. Other notable omissions include Nigeria, Denmark, Serbia, Poland, and Cameroon—all of whom participated in the 2022 tournament in Qatar. Conversely, the expansion to 48 teams provided a platform for four nations to make their World Cup debut: Uzbekistan, Jordan, Cape Verde, and Curaçao. Of those four, Cape Verde stands as the only debutant to have successfully advanced past the group stage.
Looking Ahead to the Round of 16
With the Round of 32 concluding on Friday, the tournament bracket will be finalized for the Round of 16 beginning on Saturday. As the competition progresses toward the July 19 final, focus shifts to the tactical adjustments required for teams managing the tournament format. Supporters are encouraged to check official FIFA and local broadcaster listings for exact kickoff times.
