SEATTLE — If no one truly knew how good the U.S. national team was before the World Cup started, then no one had even the slightest clue of how good its defense was. Up until a few weeks ago, and really up until Wednesday night,

The Sporting News brings you expert picks and predictions as France and Paraguay meet in the first of the Round of 16 clashes in Philadelphia.

Egypt is through to the Round of 16 after defeating Australia in a dramatic penalty shootout on Friday, marking a historic first World Cup knockout-round win for the Pharaohs.

Cape Verde came from behind twice to force extra time. But a 111th-minute own goal handed the three-time winners a 3-2 victory.

Will Hill is putting his money on the England defense to help Three Lions cruise against Croatia on Wednesday.

The 2026 men's World Cup round of 16 is coming into focus. Thursday was the penultimate day of round of 32 competition with six more teams battling to clinch their spot in the bracket's next round. The day's slate wasn't hurting for star power either with Lamine Yamal's Spain facing Austria and Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal facing Croatia before the nightcap between Switzerland and Algeria.

Spain arrived at World Cup 2026 as one of the most talented squads in the field, but Group H wasn't exactly smooth sailing. A scoreless draw with Cape Verde, a 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia and a 1-0 battle past Uruguay were enough to finish top of the group with seven points,