The group stage is almost done — now the fun really starts

No more second chances, folks. From here it's win or fly home, and Bo's been poring over the round of 32 to call it for you. Six ties are locked in and verdicts are below — with another ten still to be confirmed once the dust settles. Six knockout shootouts, six confident Bo calls, and not a dull one in the bunch. Think you can read them better than me? The gauntlet's down. Can you beat Bo? Get your predictions in!

**Remember, in the knock-out rounds you're predicting the result in normal time....don't worry about extra time or penalties!**

South Africa v Canada

First knockout tie either side's ever reached — history's made already. But Jonathan David's been banging them in, Davies is fit again, and Canada have the class. Bafana nick one on the break; it won't be enough. Canada win 2-1.

Brazil v Japan

Japan beat this Brazil in a friendly last year, and they'll fancy it. Cute story. But Vini Jr's flying, the Seleção only conceded once all group, and knockout Brazil is a different animal. They stroll it in second gear. Brazil win 2-0.

Germany v Paraguay

Paraguay ground their way here on clean sheets and spite — and fair play, they make life miserable. But Wirtz and Musiala don't do miserable for long. The wall cracks, then crumbles. Germany win 2-0.

Netherlands v Morocco

Tie of the round so far, no question — two heavyweights drawn far too early. Morocco are organised and Saibari's scored in every game, so they'll land a blow. But the Dutch have too many guns up top. Netherlands win 2-1.

Ivory Coast v Norway

The Elephants are in the last 32 for the first time ever — take a bow. Trouble is, Haaland's got four goals already and only needs a half-chance. Ivory Coast dig in and frustrate, but one moment settles it. Norway win 1-0.

France v Sweden

Mbappé's purring, Dembélé bagged a hat-trick last time out, and France haven't broken sweat. Sweden's Gyökeres and Isak are a proper handful and they'll grab one — but they'll ship a few more. France win 3-1.

Published: Jun 27, 2026 22:35 | Updated: Jun 28, 2026 20:30

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