European barometer for the 2026 World Cup
The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has entered its high-stakes knockout phase. The round of 32 began with a tense encounter in Los Angeles where Canada secured a narrow 0-1 victory over South Africa in the final moments of the match.
Of the 48 nations that qualified for this tournament, 16 represented Europe. Following the group stages, 13 European teams remain in contention. Unfortunately, the journey has ended for the Czech Republic, Scotland, and Turkey. Among those still fighting for the trophy is France, the two-time champions and last edition’s finalists.
I am tracking the progress of every European selection to bring you the most vital statistics, standout quotes, and defining moments from the competition. Here is the essential briefing for day eighteen, Sunday, June 28.
The record-breaking statistic 📊
215
The sheer volume of scoring in this tournament is unprecedented. After 72 group stage matches, the total goal count reached 215 before the first knockout game even kicked off. This average of 2.99 goals per match easily eclipses the previous record of 172 goals set during the 2022 tournament in Qatar. While the expanded 48-team format and 104-match schedule contribute to these numbers, the attacking flair on display is undeniable.
Overnight match result
South Africa 🇿🇦 0 – 1 Canada 🇨🇦
History was made in Los Angeles as Canada earned its first-ever spot in the round of 16. The breakthrough came during stoppage time when Eustaquio fired a magnificent shot into the net from the edge of the area. The Canadians are now set to face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the next round.
The controversial quote 🎙️
“I couldn’t even find it on a map. Honestly, I know nothing about that country and have no desire to learn.” — Abigail Vélez, ABC7 Los Angeles journalist.
This dismissive comment regarding Bosnia-Herzegovina, made during a broadcast ahead of their July 2nd match against the USA, caused an immediate firestorm on social media. The clip has already garnered over 8 million views. The remark was particularly awkward given that the head of ABC News, Almin Karamehmedovic, was born in the Bosnian capital, Sarajevo. Following the backlash, the reporter issued a public apology.
Focus on the French schedule 🔎
European supporters of the French national team can breathe a sigh of relief regarding kickoff times. Regardless of how far they progress, Les Bleus will not play any matches starting later than 11:00 PM French time.
- Round of 32: France vs Sweden, Tuesday at 11:00 PM.
- Potential Round of 16: Against Germany or Paraguay, July 4th at 11:00 PM.
- Potential Quarter-final: Thursday, July 9th at 10:00 PM.
- Potential Semi-final: Tuesday, July 14th at 9:00 PM.
- Potential Final: Sunday, July 19th at 9:00 PM.
European football news 📰
Gary Lineker, the top scorer of the 1986 World Cup, has made his predictions clear. Speaking with the media, the former England striker identified France as the definitive favorite to win the title in North America. Lineker was particularly critical of the German side, suggesting that if France and Germany meet in the round of 16, it would be an easy win for the French against what he describes as one of the weakest German squads in recent memory. Germany is scheduled to play Paraguay this Monday, June 29, at 10:30 PM in Foxborough.