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2026 World Cup Knockouts: Messi Leads, Ronaldo Sets Record

6/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout round began with 32 teams—24 group winners and eight top third-placed teams.
The expanded 48-team format saw debut nations Cape Verde and Canada reach the round of 32, a first for the tournament.
Lionel Messi of Argentina leads the Golden Boot with six goals.
Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score in six consecutive World Cups.

History

Historical Context

The 1998 FIFA World Cup, the 16th edition, ran from 10 June to 12 July in France and expanded the finals to 32 national teams, fielding 704 players. Brazil won the final 3-0 over hosts France, while Germany claimed third place. The tournament’s broadened field created a model that later proposals cite when debating further expansion of the World Cup.

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Story summary

The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout round began with 32 teams—24 group winners and eight top third-placed teams.
The expanded 48-team format saw debut nations Cape Verde and Canada reach the round of 32, a first for the tournament.
Lionel Messi of Argentina leads the Golden Boot with six goals.
Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score in six consecutive World Cups.

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