The second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is here, and the margin for error will be much less. Here are six fixtures to keep an eye on:
6. Mexico vs South Korea
Mexico's opening 2-0 victory over South Africa was a masterclass in control, but South Korea present a different psychological test. The Asian giants excel at punching above their weight and may exploit Mexico's tendency to stretch the pitch.
5. Scotland vs Morocco
Scotland's rigid defence faces a massive upgrade in class against Morocco, who went toe-to-toe with Brazil in a thrilling 1-1 draw. The Atlas Lions play with a technical swagger and a suffocating midfield press.
4. Germany vs Ivory Coast
Germany's 7-1 demolition of Curaçao was a dazzling exhibition of fluid attacking and pressing, but Ivory Coast will offer a bigger challenge. The Elephants ground out a 1-0 win over Ecuador and showed their danger on the break.
3. Uruguay vs Cape Verde
Uruguay's frustrating 1-1 draw with Saudi Arabia was a clinic in wasted opportunities and erratic execution. They now face a buoyant Cape Verde squad that just authored the shock of Round 1.
2. England vs Ghana
England's potent 4-2 victory over Croatia proved two things: Thomas Tuchel has an ungodly wealth of attacking options, and his defence is still prone to vertigo when turned around quickly. Ghana will enter with full confidence after a thrilling last-minute 1-0 win over Panama.
1. Argentina vs Austria
Defending champions Argentina looked imperious against Algeria, but Ralf Rangnick's Austria is fully equipped to crash the party. The Austrians executed their suffocating, heavy-metal counter-press to perfection, beating Jordan 3-1.
