World cup 2026: day 18 highlights and european team progress

The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has entered its high-stakes knockout phase. In a dramatic opening to the round of 32, Canada secured a narrow 0-1 victory over South Africa in Los Angeles, with the decisive goal arriving deep into injury time.

Out of the 16 European nations that qualified for the tournament, 13 remain in the hunt for the trophy. While the Czech Republic, Scotland, and Turkey have already been eliminated, heavyweights like France—champions in 1998 and 2018—continue their journey in North America.

Tournament statistics and goal records

This edition of the World Cup is shattering scoring records. Following the 72 matches of the group stage, the total goal count reached 215 before the first knockout game even began. This averages out to 2.99 goals per match, significantly surpassing the previous record of 172 goals set during the 2022 tournament in Qatar. The expanded format, featuring 48 teams and a total of 104 matches, has provided a fertile ground for this offensive explosion.

Overnight result

South Africa 0 – 1 Canada

In a historic night in Los Angeles, Canada clinched their first-ever spot in the round of 16. The match remained deadlocked until Eustaquio found the back of the net with a brilliant strike from the edge of the penalty area during stoppage time. The Canadians are now set to face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the next round.

Media controversy in Los Angeles

A recent statement by American journalist Abigail Vélez has drawn significant criticism. During a live report from Long Beach, she admitted to having no knowledge of Bosnia-Herzegovina, the European nation scheduled to face the United States on July 2. The clip has been viewed over 8 million times on social media, highlighting a perceived lack of preparation, especially given that the network’s own news director, Almin Karamehmedovic, was born in Sarajevo. Vélez has since issued an apology following the public outcry.

Focus on the French national team

For fans following the action from Europe, the scheduling for France is particularly favorable. The French squad will not play any matches starting later than 11 PM CET, regardless of their progress. Their knockout campaign begins this Tuesday against Sweden at 11 PM. If they advance, they will play the winner of the Germany and Paraguay match on July 4—the American Independence Day—at the same time. Potential semi-final and final appearances are slated for 9 PM CET on July 14 and July 19, respectively.

European football perspectives

Former Golden Boot winner Gary Lineker has voiced strong opinions on the tournament favorites. He firmly believes that France is the team to beat in this World Cup. In a recent interview, he expressed confidence that the French would easily overcome Germany should they meet in the round of 16, describing the current German team as one of the weakest he has ever seen. Germany is scheduled to play their round of 32 match against Paraguay this Monday at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough.