The 2026 World Cup moves into the knockout round on Sunday, with 32 teams having advanced from the group stage to the “one and done” elimination bracket.
There’s plenty of soccer still left to play in this tournament, and that means plenty of opportunity to make some wagers on the action.
With so many potential bets that can be made over these next 16 games, it might be a bit overwhelming to know where to begin. Fear not! Victoria Matiash has looked over the options and landed on her favorite options as the field battles it out to cut the field in half.
Read more:Lionel Messi scores again to seal perfect group stage for Argentina
*Odds as of time of publication.For the most updated odds, visit DK Sports
Australia vs. Egypt 
The winger is heating up as this tournament progresses. After failing to see the pitch in Egypt’s opener against Belgium, Trézéguet scored on a gorgeous header coming off the bench against New Zealand before firing five shots — two on target — in a tough 1-1 draw with Iran. The Egyptian footballer stands to enjoy additional opportunities against an Australian side that ranks No. 36 in possession (40.7%) through the group stage. The Pharaohs should hope so, since Mohamed Salah might not be fit after suffering an apparent hamstring injury.
Brazil vs Japan 
Sure, Carlo Ancelotti‘s side followed up an opening draw with Morocco by breezing through Scotland and Haiti with parallel 3-0 results, but the Japanese are an altogether superior side by comparison. It’s a side that has the wherewithal, similarly to the Moroccans, to hang with A Seleção through to the end of regulation time.
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Not only is this arguably the strongest Japanese side to ever compete at a World Cup, they also might benefit from a recent boost in confidence. After 13 previous cracks at it, Japan beat Brazil 3-2 for the first time in a friendly this past October. Even though the Brazilians were missing two key center-backs in that fixture, there’s a fresh sense of belief amongst the Asian squad that they can at least keep step through 90 minutes.
For those keen on selecting a Brazilian anytime goal scorer, know that Matheus Cunha (+185) has found the net three times thus far, while Vinícius Júnior (+165) has scored on four occasions (and in all three matches).
Read more:Algeria and Austria’s dramatic draw sends Iran out of World Cup
Norway vs. Ivory Coast 
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Favored to advance to the Round of 16 (-180), Norway is already emerging as a comfortable preference to win in regulation. A goal from their superstar — and one of the most dangerous footballers on the planet — will certainly help in securing such a result.
After sitting out the final group-stage loss to France, Haaland will feel additionally inspired to make his tangible mark. With four goals through Norway’s first two matches (Lionel Messi leads with five), the Manchester City striker is still in the running for the tournament’s top scorer.
