The penultimate day of last-32 action at the 2026 World Cup promises to be a compelling one, with two of the pre-tournament favourites in action. Whether or not Portugal and Spain are still among the frontrunners to lift the trophy on 19 July, however, could be determined by what unfolds on Thursday.
Spain v Austria: A Point to Prove
Spain face Austria in Los Angeles with a point to prove. While the European champions made comfortable enough progress through the group stage, they have yet to find top gear. The intensity they demonstrated at Euro 2024 has been missing, with Lamine Yamal still searching for sharpness after an injury layoff.
Austria left it very late to secure a place in the last 32, netting an equaliser in the sixth minute of stoppage time against Algeria to set up Thursday's clash with Spain. Ralf Rangnick's side will attempt to press the European champions and play them at their own high-energy, high-risk game. That could make for an entertaining encounter.
Player to watch: Lamine Yamal, Spain – While the Barcelona winger is still searching for sharpness, he remains the difference-maker who dictates everything for Spain in the final third. They need him in top form.
Portugal v Croatia: Ronaldo Under Scrutiny
Two draws from three games isn't the start Portugal wanted. Rather than a favourable last-32 tie against Ghana, Cristiano Ronaldo and Co now have to find a way past Croatia, and there's no guarantee they will be able to do that on the basis of their lacklustre performances so far. The 41-year-old Ronaldo has been weighed down by his reputation, with his contribution not matching expectations after underwhelming draws against the Democratic Republic of Congo and Colombia.
Croatia similarly haven't been at their best in their three matches, but the experience of Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic, not to mention the elite-level quality of Josko Gvardiol and Josip Stanisic, makes them dangerous opponents. Croatia usually find a way to win at tournaments.
Player to watch: Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal – The story of this match could be told through Ronaldo and whether he can provide the firepower Portugal need. If the 41-year-old is struggling, will manager Roberto Martinez have the nerve to replace him?
Switzerland v Algeria: Underdogs in the Spotlight
Switzerland have flown under the radar at the World Cup so far despite finishing top of Group B. Their 2-1 win over co-hosts Canada, not to mention the 4-1 demolition of Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighted the balance Murat Yakin has instilled in a team who could make a deep run at this tournament.
Algeria's performances have been uneven over their three matches. Ibrahim Maza has been a standout performer through the middle of the pitch, while former Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez remains capable of a match-winning moment even if he has struggled for his best form.
Player to watch: Johan Manzambi, Switzerland – The World Cup changed for the Swiss when Manzambi came off the bench in the game against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Since then, the Freiburg youngster has electrified the rest of the team around him. He's a must-watch talent.
How to Watch: Kick-off Times, TV Channels & Streaming
Spain v Austria
Time (ET): 3pm
Stadium: Los Angeles Stadium
United States: Fox / Telemundo (Stream on Fubo)
Canada: TSN (Stream)
United Kingdom: BBC One (Stream)
Australia: SBS (Stream)
Portugal v Croatia
Time (ET): 7pm
Stadium: Toronto Stadium
United States: FS1 / Telemundo (Stream on Fubo)
Canada: TSN (Stream)
United Kingdom: BBC One (Stream)
Australia: SBS (Stream)
Switzerland v Algeria
Time (ET): 11pm
Stadium: BC Place Vancouver
United States: FS1 / Telemundo (Stream on Fubo)
Canada: TSN (Stream)
United Kingdom: BBC One (Stream)
Australia: SBS (Stream)
