2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16
Eight knockout matches narrow the field to the quarter-finalists. Extra time and penalties apply if scores are level after 90 minutes.
The 2026 World Cup Round of 16, explained
The Round of 16 has been a fixture of FIFA World Cup knockouts since 1986. In 2026, 8 single-elimination matches across 4 days reduce the 32 teams that survived the Round of 32 down to eight quarter-finalists.
Qualification rule
Winners advance to the Quarter-finals.
Format
- ·Single-elimination knockout.
- ·Extra time (2 × 15 min) and penalties apply if level after 90 minutes.
- ·Winners advance to the Quarter-finals.
Round of 16 through recent World Cups
How the Round of 16 has played out across the most recent FIFA World Cups.
Round of 16 fixtures
Frequently Asked Questions
How many matches are in the World Cup 2026 Round of 16?
The Round of 16 consists of 8 matches between 2026-07-04 and 2026-07-07 — an average of 2.0 matches per day.
What is the qualification rule for the Round of 16?
Winners advance to the Quarter-finals.
When does the Round of 16 start at the 2026 World Cup?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 runs from Saturday, July 4 to Tuesday, July 7, 2026.
Does Round of 16 use extra time and penalties?
Yes. If the score is level after 90 minutes, two 15-minute halves of extra time are played. If still tied, the match is decided on penalty kicks.
Can I get Round of 16 fixtures and live scores via API?
Yes. Filter the matches endpoint by stage (round-of-16) or by date range (2026-07-04–2026-07-07) to get every Round of 16 fixture, plus live scores, lineups, in-match events, xG, and odds during play.
How does the 2026 Round of 16 compare to previous editions?
The 2026 Round of 16 retains the same single-elimination format used in recent World Cups, but draws teams from the expanded 48-team field.
Get live Round of 16 data via API
Scores, lineups, events, xG, and odds. 7-day free trial.