The 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered a brutal three-day stretch for the tournament's host nations. In a devastating sequence during the Round of 16, all three co-hosts—Canada, Mexico, and the United States—were knocked out of the competition after encountering superior opponents.
Folarin Balogun's highly controversial red card reprieve proved to be of little consolation for the United States as a nightmarish defensive display saw the World Cup co-hosts soundly thrashed 4-1 by Belgium, abruptly ending their tournament dreams in the Round of 16.
Spain brought Portugal’s World Cup journey to an end and, in all likelihood, drew the curtain on Cristiano Ronaldo’s glittering international career.
Brazil captain Marquinhos has apologised to fans following the five-time champions' shock exit from the FIFA World Cup, admitting his side paid the price for wasting crucial chances in the Round of 16 defeat to Norway.
Ten-man England survived a furious second-half onslaught from co-hosts Mexico to secure a breathtaking 3-2 victory at the iconic Mexico City Stadium, booking their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals.
Brazilian football icon Neymar has announced his retirement from international duty following Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.