OneFootball
Alex Mott·2 juillet 2026
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Alex Mott·2 juillet 2026
The Round of 32 concludes with three fascinating ties as Spain face Austria, Portugal take on Croatia and Switzerland meet Algeria.
Here are the big questions on Day 22.
One of the tournament favourites faces a team enjoying its first World Cup campaign in decades.
Spain topped Group H with three disciplined performances, conceding just once while displaying the possession-based football that has become Luis de la Fuente's trademark. However, preparations have been disrupted by injury concerns, with winger Nico Williams battling a recurring groin problem after suffering another setback during the group stage.
Austria have been one of the tournament's surprise stories. Ralf Rangnick's side secured a place in the knockout rounds after a dramatic 3-3 draw with Algeria, their first appearance in the World Cup knockout stage since 1982. Rangnick insisted his players fear nobody after progressing from a highly competitive group.
Our prediction: Spain 2-0 Austria
Two European heavyweights collide in what promises to be one of the ties of the Round of 32.
Portugal's group stage was something of a mixed bag. Roberto Martínez's side finished second after drawing twice before producing an emphatic 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan to secure qualification. Ahead of the knockout rounds, João Félix urged supporters to remain calm, insisting the squad remains full of confidence despite questions surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo's form.
Croatia once again demonstrated their tournament pedigree by progressing from a difficult group. Built around experienced leaders and a technically gifted midfield, Zlatko Dalić's side know how to navigate knockout football and will relish facing familiar opponents.
Our prediction: Portugal 2-1 Croatia
The final match of the Round of 32 could also be one of the most unpredictable.
Switzerland topped Group B through their trademark organisation and defensive discipline. Murat Yakin's side have once again shown why they are such difficult opponents at major tournaments, combining structure with enough quality in attack to punish mistakes.
Algeria have already exceeded expectations by reaching the knockout rounds as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams. Their thrilling 3-3 draw with Austria secured qualification, and Vladimir Petković's side have played with confidence and attacking intent throughout the tournament. Reuters noted that Algeria refused to settle for a result that would have suited both teams, underlining their competitive approach.
Our prediction: Switzerland 2-1 Algeria
📸 Luke Hales - 2026 Getty Images
Spain's midfield conductor, Pedri, has quietly been one of the outstanding performers of the tournament.
The Barcelona midfielder has controlled the tempo of matches with his composure in possession while also contributing defensively whenever Spain have come under pressure. With injuries affecting Spain's attacking options, Pedri's creativity will become even more important as the knockout rounds begin. Reuters has highlighted Spain's need for midfield control while they manage injuries in wide areas.
If Spain are to fulfil their ambitions of lifting the trophy, expect Pedri to be at the heart of everything they do.
Austria have reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time since the 1982 tournament, ending a 44-year wait to play in the elimination rounds. Their dramatic 3-3 draw with Algeria secured progression for both nations and completed one of the stories of the group stage.
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