Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

World Cup Round of 32 action continues on Friday with Australia facing Egypt in Dallas, Argentina meeting Cape Verde in Miami and Colombia taking on Ghana in Kansas City.

The final three knockout matches will settle the remaining Round of 16 places, with Argentina, Switzerland and other contenders waiting to learn their next opponents. Each tie carries a different story, from first-time knockout ambitions to Lionel Messi’s title defence.

For more World Cup debate, read World Cup VAR Controversy Grows After Croatia’s Joy Is Erased, while official fixtures and tournament details are available through the FIFA World Cup 2026 page.

Australia And Egypt Chase History

Australia and Egypt both enter Friday’s Dallas match searching for a first World Cup knockout win. The winner is likely to face Argentina in the Round of 16.

Mohamed Salah is expected to be ready after leaving Egypt’s 1-1 draw with Iran because of a hamstring strain. His chance creation has been a major weapon, with only Belgium’s Leandro Trossard ahead of his 11 opportunities made at this tournament.

Australia have been hard to break down, conceding just two goals in three group matches. The concern is attack, with the Socceroos taking only 26 shots and not scoring since the 75th minute of their opening 2-0 win over Türkiye.

Messi Meets Cape Verde

Argentina face Cape Verde in Miami, bringing one of the tournament favourites up against one of its best underdog stories. Cape Verde reached the knockout stage after drawing all three group games, including a 0-0 result against Spain.

Vozinha should have a busy night in goal against an Argentina attack led by Messi, who has six goals and remains in the Golden Boot race. Cape Verde have allowed only two goals, but Argentina’s movement and finishing will test that defensive record.

Colombia Face Ghana Test

Colombia meet Ghana in Kansas City after winning Group K ahead of Portugal without losing a match. Ghana placed third in Group L with one win, one draw and one defeat.

History favours Colombia, who have won their last four matches against African teams. The winner will face Switzerland on Tuesday in Vancouver.