As of June 30, 2026, Paraguay and Brazil have qualified for the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The qualification was confirmed following their performances in the group stage, which concluded earlier this week.
Brazil, a five-time World Cup champion, advanced after topping their group with a perfect record, including a 3-0 victory over a yet-to-be-confirmed opponent. Paraguay secured their spot as one of the best third-placed teams, a new format for the expanded 48-team tournament, after a 2-1 win against another group rival.
The round of 16 matches are scheduled to begin on July 3, 2026, with Brazil facing a yet-to-be-determined opponent and Paraguay playing against another qualifier. The exact matchups will be confirmed after the completion of all group stage games.
This marks Paraguay's first appearance in the knockout stage since 2010, while Brazil continues its streak of advancing past the group stage in every World Cup since 1994.
