World Cup
World Cup Round of 16 expert betting tips
by Chike Nwoye
4 Jul 2026
We’re down to the final 16 as the World Cup continues to gather pace. Africa had nine teams reach the Round of 32, but only two remain: Morocco, who take on co-hosts Canada, and Egypt, who face the daunting task of stopping Lionel Messi. Tough! Elsewhere, one of football’s GOATs, Cristiano Ronaldo, goes head-to-head with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal as Spain look to avenge their UEFA Nations League final defeat from a year ago. Also, the race for the Golden Boot is the best we’ve ever seen at an international tournament with the big boys involved. Here are our World Cup predictions for all eight matches.
Our Round of 16 Picks:
World Cup R16 Fixtures Betting Tip Canada vs. Morocco Morocco to Qualify Paraguay vs. France Over 2.5 Goals For France Brazil vs. Norway Erling Haaland Anytime Scorer Mexico vs. England Harry Kane Anytime Scorer Portugal vs. Spain Portugal Under 1.5 Goals United States vs. Belgium Both Teams to Score Argentina vs. Egypt Lionel Messi Anytime Scorer Switzerland vs. Colombia Colombia 1UP
- Total Odds: 97.98
- Booking Code: 9K2R8Q
- Acca Bonus: 15%
We’re down to the final 16 as the World Cup continues to gather pace. Africa had nine teams reach the Round of 32, but only two remain: Morocco, who take on co-hosts Canada, and Egypt, who face the daunting task of stopping Lionel Messi. Tough! Elsewhere, one of football’s GOATs, Cristiano Ronaldo, goes head-to-head with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal as Spain look to avenge their UEFA Nations League final defeat from a year ago. Also, the race for the Golden Boot is the best we’ve ever seen at an international tournament with the big boys involved. Here are our World Cup predictions for all eight matches.
Our Round of 16 Picks:
| World Cup R16 Fixtures | Betting Tip |
| Canada vs. Morocco | Morocco to Qualify |
| Paraguay vs. France | Over 2.5 Goals For France |
| Brazil vs. Norway | Erling Haaland Anytime Scorer |
| Mexico vs. England | Harry Kane Anytime Scorer |
| Portugal vs. Spain | Portugal Under 1.5 Goals |
| United States vs. Belgium | Both Teams to Score |
| Argentina vs. Egypt | Lionel Messi Anytime Scorer |
| Switzerland vs. Colombia | Colombia 1UP |
- Total Odds: 97.98
- Booking Code: 9K2R8Q
- Acca Bonus: 15%
Canada vs. Morocco: Betting Tips
Canada's dream World Cup run continues after a dramatic 1-0 win over South Africa, secured by Stephen Eustaquio's stoppage-time strike for their first-ever World Cup knockout victory. Jesse Marsch's side have now scored in six straight matches and showed their relentless pressing game against South Africa, registering 100 final-third pressures in the first half alone - the highest by any team at a World Cup since 2010.
Standing in their way, though, is a Morocco side that keeps proving they're built for tournament football. The Atlas Lions edged the Netherlands on penalties after restricting them to just 0.24 expected goals across 120 minutes while completing an incredible 801 passes - a mark only Spain have also reached in a World Cup since detailed records began. Morocco are unbeaten in nine matches and have progressed from six of their last eight knockout ties at major tournaments. It’s fair to say they’re built for this.
History also favours the North Africans. Canada are winless in four previous meetings with Morocco (D1 L3), including a 2-1 defeat at the 2022 World Cup, while Morocco have won both of their previous World Cup games against CONCACAF opposition.
Canada could receive a huge boost with Alphonso Davies pushing for a first start since returning from injury, but Morocco appear to have a fully fit squad and that could be the difference. Also, if this game goes the distance, Morocco's penalty record and Yassine Bounou's shootout heroics make them the side to trust.
Betting Tips:
Paraguay vs. France: Betting Tips
Paraguay head into this Round of 16 clash full of confidence after producing one of the biggest shocks of the tournament, knocking out four-time world champions Germany on penalties. The hero of the day was goalkeeper Orlando Gill who saved two spot-kicks after a brilliant 120 minutes in which he made save after save. Also, the result (1-1 AET) means La Albirroja have conceded just once in their last three matches, a huge boost heading into the Round of 16. Gustavo Alfaro's side have become one of the hardest teams to break down and will hope that defensive resilience can frustrate another heavyweight.
France, however, have looked like the standout team of the tournament. Les Bleus have won all four of their matches, scored a tournament-high 12 goals and become the first side in World Cup history to score at least three goals in five consecutive games. Their 3-0 win over Sweden was another statement, with Kylian Mbappé continuing his brilliant form while Michael Olise moved to five assists, one shy of Pelé's single-tournament record.
History also favours France. Paraguay are winless in five previous meetings (D2 L3), including their heartbreaking Golden Goal defeat in the 1998 Round of 16. Diego Gómez returns from suspension to strengthen Paraguay's midfield, while France have no major injury concerns.
The biggest betting angle could be whether Paraguay's disciplined low block can slow France's explosive attack. With temperatures expected to reach 39°C, the heat may help the underdogs keep things tighter than many expect, but France remains deserved favourites to progress. Perhaps another 3+ goals? No worry, based on who we be, BetKing has the best odds for that.
Betting Tips:
Brazil vs. Norway: Betting Tips
Brazil are through to the Round of 16 and fans worldwide are starting to believe in the possibility of a 6th star, but Carlo Ancelotti's side haven't had it all their own way. They needed a 95th-minute winner from Gabriel Martinelli to beat Japan 2-1, having previously drawn Morocco before comfortable 3-0 wins over Haiti and Scotland. Vinicius Jr scored in every group game and remains Brazil's biggest attacking threat, while Matheus Cunha’s 3 goals have also been a welcome addition. However, Lucas Paqueta is expected to miss out through injury, joining Raphina on the sidelines and you wonder if that could prove to be more costly than it appears on paper.
Norway have been one of the tournament's most entertaining teams and I’m not just talking about their “Ro!”. Their four matches have produced 18 goals, with Erling Haaland already scoring five times. The Manchester City striker, supported by Martin Ødegaard and Antonio Nusa, fired Norway past Cote d’Ivoire 2-1 in a highly entertaining second half. Having never progressed past the Round of 16 in their World Cup history, they’ll be hoping this generation of Vikings could rewrite that history for them.
Brazil have scored nine and conceded just twice in four matches, while Norway have found the net 10 times but shipped eight. That contrast sets up an intriguing clash between Brazil's control and Norway's firepower. With Haaland facing Gabriel Magalhães again and both teams carrying genuine attacking quality, goals at both ends look a strong possibility.
Betting Tips:
Mexico vs. England: Betting Tips
England face their toughest test of the World Cup so far when they meet co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 16 at the high-altitude Estadio Azteca. The Three Lions needed Harry Kane's late double to edge DR Congo 2-1 despite producing an unconvincing display, with Kane now back in the Golden Boot race on five goals from just 3.27 xG.
Mexico, meanwhile, have been one of the tournament's standout teams. Javier Aguirre's side beat Ecuador 2-0 to reach the last 16, extending their perfect World Cup record to four wins from four without conceding a goal. They've also won six straight matches in all competitions and are unbeaten in 12.
The Azteca could be Mexico's biggest advantage. El Tri have never lost a World Cup match there (W8 D2) and remain unbeaten in their last 26 games at the stadium. On the other hand, England has won the last four meetings between the sides, but not since 2010. Also, the Azteca has not been kind to the three Lions. It was in this very stadium exactly 40 years ago where the legendary Diego Maradona scored arguably the most iconic brace in football history; the “Goal of the Century”, and “The Hand of God”. There are members of that England squad who have not recovered.
With Mexico's rock-solid defence and England still searching for top gear, this has all the ingredients of a tight, low-scoring knockout contest, although Kane's clinical finishing could prove decisive once again. The odds surprisingly suggest he may not but my bet of the day is that he will.
Betting Tips:
Portugal vs. Spain: Betting Tips
It’s Cristiano Ronaldo - a football icon looking for one last shot at World Cup glory - against Lamine Yamal, the most electrifying teenager on the planet, also hoping to get a taste of victory at this stage in his first try.
Spain and Portugal renew one of international football's fiercest rivalries in the World Cup Round of 16, with a place in the quarter-finals on the line. While Spain head into the tie as slight favourites, Portugal have already shown they can rise to the occasion, especially with Cristiano Ronaldo determined to extend what could be his final World Cup campaign.
The neighbours have met 41 times, although most of those encounters were friendlies. In competitive matches, Spain hold the historical edge, but Portugal arrive with fresh confidence after beating their rivals on penalties in the 2025 UEFA Nations League final. Ronaldo scored the equaliser that day before Portugal converted all five spot-kicks to lift the trophy.
This will be the nations' third World Cup meeting across the last five tournaments, underlining how familiar these sides are with each other. That familiarity often produces tight contests where small moments decide the outcome. Spain may enjoy more of the ball, but Portugal have the experience and individual quality to punish mistakes.The last time they met at the World Cup, it ended 3-3 with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring perhaps the most famous hat-trick of his career. This time, that feat is highly unlikely.
Spain is one of two teams (alongside Mexico) yet to concede a goal in this tournament. Often known for their exceptional midfield play, it is their defense that has stolen the spotlight in this tournament, often suffocating opposition attacks and giving up few high quality chances. Expect a tense knockout battle where extra time, penalties or a moment of brilliance could separate the two Iberian rivals.
Betting Tips:
United States vs. Belgium: Betting Tips
The United States head into their World Cup Round of 16 clash with Belgium full of confidence after beating Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 despite finishing with 10 men. Folarin Balogun scored his third goal of the tournament before being sent off, meaning the USMNT will be without their leading striker. Christian Pulisic is back fit, however, giving Mauricio Pochettino another major attacking weapon.
Belgium needed a dramatic comeback to edge Senegal 3-2 after extra time, with veteran Romelu Lukaku delivering again off the bench before Youri Tielemans converted the latest goal in World Cup history. The Red Devils have scored eight goals in their last three matches but have also shown defensive vulnerabilities.
Goals look the standout betting angle. The USA have scored in every game at the tournament, while Belgium's matches have produced plenty of entertainment, including 5-1 and 3-2 victories. Leandro Trossard, Kevin De Bruyne, Jeremy Doku, and Lukaku still provide top-class quality going forward, but Belgium have looked far from secure defensively. With both attacks carrying genuine threat and neither defence inspiring complete confidence, this has all the ingredients of an open, high-scoring knockout tie.
Betting Tips:
Argentina vs. Egypt: Betting Tips
Two teams who made harder work of their Round of 32 ties than expected now meet in what promises to be a closely fought contest. Argentina needed extra time to edge World Cup debutants Cabo Verde in a thrilling five-goal encounter that saw Lionel Messi score and provide an assist, taking his World Cup tally to a record 20 goals and 9 assists. Both teams produced some stunning finishes in an entertaining match, but the defending champions will know their overall display left plenty to be desired. Argentina’s individual brilliance has carried them through the tournament so far, and while that approach comes with its risks, is there really any harm in backing Messi to produce another match-winning moment?
Egypt, meanwhile, had to rely on penalties to overcome Australia. After years of penalty shootout heartbreak, fortune finally smiled on the Pharaohs as they calmly converted all four of their spot kicks while Australia missed twice. It may not have been the comfortable win they wanted, but it secured Egypt’s first-ever World Cup knockout victory and a place in the Round of 16 for the first time.
For this one, our online betting fans may want to focus on the goals market. First up is a pick that has served us well throughout the tournament: Lionel Messi to score. The Argentine legend has now found the net in a record eight consecutive World Cup matches and, at this point, it almost feels inevitable. As for Egypt, all four of their matches have seen both teams score, with the Pharaohs registering 62 shots across the tournament. I do think both sides will get on the scoresheet again, but a cautious opening 45 minutes could keep the total below four goals.
Betting Tips:
Switzerland vs. Colombia: Betting Tips
First of all, shout out to Colombia for helping my Bet of the Day from the last round come through. Against Ghana, my correct score prediction was a 1-0 win for the Copa America finalists, and that's exactly how it finished. If you backed that pick, congratulations, you just turned your betting stake into a tidy 5x return. Their Round of 16 clash with Switzerland, however, looks like a much tougher challenge.
The Swiss have built a reputation for being competent at major tournaments, and they deserve credit for that. However, they haven’t made it beyond the World Cup Round of 16 since 1954. After topping Group B, they comfortably saw off Algeria in the Round of 32 to secure their best World Cup run in 72 years, but they’ll be desperate to go one step further.
Colombia, meanwhile, haven't looked this impressive at a World Cup since 2014, when they reached the quarterfinals, scored 12 goals in five matches, and saw James Rodríguez win the Golden Boot. This version of the Colombian side is just as effective but built on defensive discipline instead. Since conceding against Uzbekistan in their opening game, they've kept three straight clean sheets, including one against Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal.
Switzerland certainly have the quality to trouble any defence, but they may have finally met their match. I expect Colombia’s defensive solidity to be the difference in what should be another low-scoring contest.
Betting Tips:
Get in on all the World Cup action with BetKing, and tap into our daily odds boosts from the rest of the group stage into the knockout rounds. Sign up on the best betting app today, and book a bet with the code above to profit from these great tips. Remember to bet responsibly and join our Telegram community for daily updates and free bets.
Canada vs. Morocco: Betting Tips
Canada's dream World Cup run continues after a dramatic 1-0 win over South Africa, secured by Stephen Eustaquio's stoppage-time strike for their first-ever World Cup knockout victory. Jesse Marsch's side have now scored in six straight matches and showed their relentless pressing game against South Africa, registering 100 final-third pressures in the first half alone - the highest by any team at a World Cup since 2010.
Standing in their way, though, is a Morocco side that keeps proving they're built for tournament football. The Atlas Lions edged the Netherlands on penalties after restricting them to just 0.24 expected goals across 120 minutes while completing an incredible 801 passes - a mark only Spain have also reached in a World Cup since detailed records began. Morocco are unbeaten in nine matches and have progressed from six of their last eight knockout ties at major tournaments. It’s fair to say they’re built for this.
History also favours the North Africans. Canada are winless in four previous meetings with Morocco (D1 L3), including a 2-1 defeat at the 2022 World Cup, while Morocco have won both of their previous World Cup games against CONCACAF opposition.
Canada could receive a huge boost with Alphonso Davies pushing for a first start since returning from injury, but Morocco appear to have a fully fit squad and that could be the difference. Also, if this game goes the distance, Morocco's penalty record and Yassine Bounou's shootout heroics make them the side to trust.
Betting Tips:
Paraguay vs. France: Betting Tips
Paraguay head into this Round of 16 clash full of confidence after producing one of the biggest shocks of the tournament, knocking out four-time world champions Germany on penalties. The hero of the day was goalkeeper Orlando Gill who saved two spot-kicks after a brilliant 120 minutes in which he made save after save. Also, the result (1-1 AET) means La Albirroja have conceded just once in their last three matches, a huge boost heading into the Round of 16. Gustavo Alfaro's side have become one of the hardest teams to break down and will hope that defensive resilience can frustrate another heavyweight.
France, however, have looked like the standout team of the tournament. Les Bleus have won all four of their matches, scored a tournament-high 12 goals and become the first side in World Cup history to score at least three goals in five consecutive games. Their 3-0 win over Sweden was another statement, with Kylian Mbappé continuing his brilliant form while Michael Olise moved to five assists, one shy of Pelé's single-tournament record.
History also favours France. Paraguay are winless in five previous meetings (D2 L3), including their heartbreaking Golden Goal defeat in the 1998 Round of 16. Diego Gómez returns from suspension to strengthen Paraguay's midfield, while France have no major injury concerns.
The biggest betting angle could be whether Paraguay's disciplined low block can slow France's explosive attack. With temperatures expected to reach 39°C, the heat may help the underdogs keep things tighter than many expect, but France remains deserved favourites to progress. Perhaps another 3+ goals? No worry, based on who we be, BetKing has the best odds for that.
Betting Tips:
Brazil vs. Norway: Betting Tips
Brazil are through to the Round of 16 and fans worldwide are starting to believe in the possibility of a 6th star, but Carlo Ancelotti's side haven't had it all their own way. They needed a 95th-minute winner from Gabriel Martinelli to beat Japan 2-1, having previously drawn Morocco before comfortable 3-0 wins over Haiti and Scotland. Vinicius Jr scored in every group game and remains Brazil's biggest attacking threat, while Matheus Cunha’s 3 goals have also been a welcome addition. However, Lucas Paqueta is expected to miss out through injury, joining Raphina on the sidelines and you wonder if that could prove to be more costly than it appears on paper.
Norway have been one of the tournament's most entertaining teams and I’m not just talking about their “Ro!”. Their four matches have produced 18 goals, with Erling Haaland already scoring five times. The Manchester City striker, supported by Martin Ødegaard and Antonio Nusa, fired Norway past Cote d’Ivoire 2-1 in a highly entertaining second half. Having never progressed past the Round of 16 in their World Cup history, they’ll be hoping this generation of Vikings could rewrite that history for them.
Brazil have scored nine and conceded just twice in four matches, while Norway have found the net 10 times but shipped eight. That contrast sets up an intriguing clash between Brazil's control and Norway's firepower. With Haaland facing Gabriel Magalhães again and both teams carrying genuine attacking quality, goals at both ends look a strong possibility.
Betting Tips:
Mexico vs. England: Betting Tips
England face their toughest test of the World Cup so far when they meet co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 16 at the high-altitude Estadio Azteca. The Three Lions needed Harry Kane's late double to edge DR Congo 2-1 despite producing an unconvincing display, with Kane now back in the Golden Boot race on five goals from just 3.27 xG.
Mexico, meanwhile, have been one of the tournament's standout teams. Javier Aguirre's side beat Ecuador 2-0 to reach the last 16, extending their perfect World Cup record to four wins from four without conceding a goal. They've also won six straight matches in all competitions and are unbeaten in 12.
The Azteca could be Mexico's biggest advantage. El Tri have never lost a World Cup match there (W8 D2) and remain unbeaten in their last 26 games at the stadium. On the other hand, England has won the last four meetings between the sides, but not since 2010. Also, the Azteca has not been kind to the three Lions. It was in this very stadium exactly 40 years ago where the legendary Diego Maradona scored arguably the most iconic brace in football history; the “Goal of the Century”, and “The Hand of God”. There are members of that England squad who have not recovered.
With Mexico's rock-solid defence and England still searching for top gear, this has all the ingredients of a tight, low-scoring knockout contest, although Kane's clinical finishing could prove decisive once again. The odds surprisingly suggest he may not but my bet of the day is that he will.
Betting Tips:
Portugal vs. Spain: Betting Tips
It’s Cristiano Ronaldo - a football icon looking for one last shot at World Cup glory - against Lamine Yamal, the most electrifying teenager on the planet, also hoping to get a taste of victory at this stage in his first try.
Spain and Portugal renew one of international football's fiercest rivalries in the World Cup Round of 16, with a place in the quarter-finals on the line. While Spain head into the tie as slight favourites, Portugal have already shown they can rise to the occasion, especially with Cristiano Ronaldo determined to extend what could be his final World Cup campaign.
The neighbours have met 41 times, although most of those encounters were friendlies. In competitive matches, Spain hold the historical edge, but Portugal arrive with fresh confidence after beating their rivals on penalties in the 2025 UEFA Nations League final. Ronaldo scored the equaliser that day before Portugal converted all five spot-kicks to lift the trophy.
This will be the nations' third World Cup meeting across the last five tournaments, underlining how familiar these sides are with each other. That familiarity often produces tight contests where small moments decide the outcome. Spain may enjoy more of the ball, but Portugal have the experience and individual quality to punish mistakes.The last time they met at the World Cup, it ended 3-3 with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring perhaps the most famous hat-trick of his career. This time, that feat is highly unlikely.
Spain is one of two teams (alongside Mexico) yet to concede a goal in this tournament. Often known for their exceptional midfield play, it is their defense that has stolen the spotlight in this tournament, often suffocating opposition attacks and giving up few high quality chances. Expect a tense knockout battle where extra time, penalties or a moment of brilliance could separate the two Iberian rivals.
Betting Tips:
United States vs. Belgium: Betting Tips
The United States head into their World Cup Round of 16 clash with Belgium full of confidence after beating Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 despite finishing with 10 men. Folarin Balogun scored his third goal of the tournament before being sent off, meaning the USMNT will be without their leading striker. Christian Pulisic is back fit, however, giving Mauricio Pochettino another major attacking weapon.
Belgium needed a dramatic comeback to edge Senegal 3-2 after extra time, with veteran Romelu Lukaku delivering again off the bench before Youri Tielemans converted the latest goal in World Cup history. The Red Devils have scored eight goals in their last three matches but have also shown defensive vulnerabilities.
Goals look the standout betting angle. The USA have scored in every game at the tournament, while Belgium's matches have produced plenty of entertainment, including 5-1 and 3-2 victories. Leandro Trossard, Kevin De Bruyne, Jeremy Doku, and Lukaku still provide top-class quality going forward, but Belgium have looked far from secure defensively. With both attacks carrying genuine threat and neither defence inspiring complete confidence, this has all the ingredients of an open, high-scoring knockout tie.
Betting Tips:
Argentina vs. Egypt: Betting Tips
Two teams who made harder work of their Round of 32 ties than expected now meet in what promises to be a closely fought contest. Argentina needed extra time to edge World Cup debutants Cabo Verde in a thrilling five-goal encounter that saw Lionel Messi score and provide an assist, taking his World Cup tally to a record 20 goals and 9 assists. Both teams produced some stunning finishes in an entertaining match, but the defending champions will know their overall display left plenty to be desired. Argentina’s individual brilliance has carried them through the tournament so far, and while that approach comes with its risks, is there really any harm in backing Messi to produce another match-winning moment?
Egypt, meanwhile, had to rely on penalties to overcome Australia. After years of penalty shootout heartbreak, fortune finally smiled on the Pharaohs as they calmly converted all four of their spot kicks while Australia missed twice. It may not have been the comfortable win they wanted, but it secured Egypt’s first-ever World Cup knockout victory and a place in the Round of 16 for the first time.
For this one, our online betting fans may want to focus on the goals market. First up is a pick that has served us well throughout the tournament: Lionel Messi to score. The Argentine legend has now found the net in a record eight consecutive World Cup matches and, at this point, it almost feels inevitable. As for Egypt, all four of their matches have seen both teams score, with the Pharaohs registering 62 shots across the tournament. I do think both sides will get on the scoresheet again, but a cautious opening 45 minutes could keep the total below four goals.
Betting Tips:
Switzerland vs. Colombia: Betting Tips
First of all, shout out to Colombia for helping my Bet of the Day from the last round come through. Against Ghana, my correct score prediction was a 1-0 win for the Copa America finalists, and that's exactly how it finished. If you backed that pick, congratulations, you just turned your betting stake into a tidy 5x return. Their Round of 16 clash with Switzerland, however, looks like a much tougher challenge.
The Swiss have built a reputation for being competent at major tournaments, and they deserve credit for that. However, they haven’t made it beyond the World Cup Round of 16 since 1954. After topping Group B, they comfortably saw off Algeria in the Round of 32 to secure their best World Cup run in 72 years, but they’ll be desperate to go one step further.
Colombia, meanwhile, haven't looked this impressive at a World Cup since 2014, when they reached the quarterfinals, scored 12 goals in five matches, and saw James Rodríguez win the Golden Boot. This version of the Colombian side is just as effective but built on defensive discipline instead. Since conceding against Uzbekistan in their opening game, they've kept three straight clean sheets, including one against Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal.
Switzerland certainly have the quality to trouble any defence, but they may have finally met their match. I expect Colombia’s defensive solidity to be the difference in what should be another low-scoring contest.
Betting Tips:
Get in on all the World Cup action with BetKing, and tap into our daily odds boosts from the rest of the group stage into the knockout rounds. Sign up on the best betting app today, and book a bet with the code above to profit from these great tips. Remember to bet responsibly and join our Telegram community for daily updates and free bets.