A total of seven nations have earned spots in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16, resulting in three established knockout stage pairings. Mexico, a co-host of the tournament, became the latest team to move forward following a 2-0 victory against Ecuador on Wednesday.
Goals from Julián Quiñones and Raul Jiménez during the opening half secured the win for Javier Aguirre’s squad. Ecuador ended the match a player short after Piero Hincapié received a red card during injury time. Mexico joins Canada as the second host nation to reach this phase.
The Mexican team is currently waiting to determine their next opponent, which will be either England or the DR Congo. Meanwhile, three matches for the Round of 16 are finalized. France faces Paraguay on Saturday following a 3-0 defeat of Sweden, while Norway prepares for a Sunday clash against Brazil. Additionally, Morocco is scheduled to meet Canada this Saturday with a quarter-final position on the line.
