The penultimate day of last-32 action at the 2026 World Cup features two pre-tournament favourites, Portugal and Spain, in crucial matches. Their performances on Thursday could determine their standing as contenders for the trophy, which is scheduled to be lifted on 19 July.
Spain faces Austria in Los Angeles
Spain is set to play Austria in Los Angeles. Despite making progress through the group stage, the European champions have not yet reached their top form. The intensity observed during Euro 2024 has reportedly been absent, with Lamine Yamal still seeking sharpness.
Austria secured their place in the last 32 by scoring an equaliser in stoppage time against Algeria. Ralf Rangnick’s team is expected to press the European champions, aiming to engage them in a high-energy, high-risk style of play. Lamine Yamal, a winger for Barcelona, is considered a key player for Spain, dictating play in the final third, despite his ongoing search for sharpness after an injury layoff.
The match between Spain and Austria is scheduled for 3pm ET at Los Angeles Stadium. Viewers in the United States can watch on Fox or Telemundo, with streaming available on Fubo. In Canada, the game will be broadcast on TSN, and in the United Kingdom on BBC One. Australia will have coverage on SBS.
Portugal takes on Croatia in Toronto
Meanwhile, Portugal will face Croatia in Toronto. Portugal has drawn two of their three games, an outcome not initially desired. This means they must now overcome Croatia, a challenge that may be difficult given their performances so far. The presence of Cristiano Ronaldo, who is 41 years old, has reportedly weighed on the team, with his contribution not matching his reputation. After draws against the Democratic Republic of Congo and Colombia, Roberto Martínez’s side cannot take their opponents lightly.
Croatia has also not been at their best in their three matches. However, the experience of players like Luka Modric and Mateo Kovačić, along with the quality of Joško Gvardiol and Josip Stanišić, makes them formidable opponents. Cristiano Ronaldo is a player to watch for Portugal, as his ability to provide the necessary firepower could be central to the match’s outcome. Questions remain about whether Martínez would consider replacing him if he struggles.
The match between Portugal and Croatia is scheduled for 7pm ET at Toronto Stadium. In the United States, the game will be available on FS1 or Telemundo, and can be streamed on Fubo. TSN will broadcast the match in Canada, while BBC One will cover it in the United Kingdom. SBS will provide coverage in Australia.
Switzerland and Algeria also in action
Another fixture on the schedule sees Switzerland play Algeria. Switzerland has progressed in the tournament, finishing at the top of Group B. Their performances have highlighted a balanced team under Murat Yakin. Algeria’s performances have been inconsistent across their three matches. Ibrahim Maza has been a notable player in midfield, and former Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez is still capable of match-winning moments, despite not being in his best form.
Johan Manzambi of Switzerland is highlighted as a player to watch. His introduction in a previous game reportedly energised his team. The match between Switzerland and Algeria is scheduled for 11pm ET at BC Place Vancouver. Coverage in the United States will be on FS1 or Telemundo, with streaming on Fubo. TSN will broadcast in Canada, BBC One in the United Kingdom, and SBS in Australia.
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Source: bbc.com
