The US men's national team have waited nearly four years for another shot at the World Cup last 16. Mauricio Pochettino and his players have been building to this moment since the Argentinian's appointment two years ago, with a beatable Belgium team all that's between the co-hosts and a place in the final eight.
Earlier in the day, Portugal and Spain face each other in a tantalizing Iberian derby. The European champions found top form to get the better of Austria in the previous round, reaching a level that will be difficult for Cristiano Ronaldo and Co to match.
The two blockbuster ties will decide two more places in the World Cup quarter-finals. All four teams involved have a realistic chance of extending their run at the tournament by at least one more round.
Portugal vs Spain: 3pm ET at AT&T Stadium
Whether Ronaldo or Roberto Martínez is to blame for the struggles Portugal have endured at this World Cup depends on whom you ask. What isn't in doubt is that Portugal will have to significantly lift their level to stand any chance of overcoming a Spain team that finally appears to be finding their stride.
The European champions have improved with almost every match they've played at the World Cup with their 3-0 victory over Austria a well-rounded display. Spain will play with intensity on both sides of the ball, something that will be easier in the air-conditioned confines of Jerry World.
Player to watch: Lamine Yamal, Spain – Spain are growing into this tournament because Yamal is growing into this tournament. They are a completely different team when they have the Barcelona youngster as a dribbling threat on the right wing.
USA vs Belgium: 8pm ET at Lumen Field
The USA are playing like a Pochettino team. Their attacking verve and energy have made the co-hosts one of the most exciting sides to watch at this World Cup, although defeat to Belgium would prompt a sense of deja vu after last-16 exits in 2010, 2014 and 2022.
Belgium got the better of the USA at the same stage of the 2014 World Cup, but the country's so-called golden generation has faded (or altogether disappeared) since then. Rudi Garcia's side have toiled throughout this summer's tournament and can't be relied upon to create goalscoring opportunities. This is a big chance for the USA.
Player to watch: Folarin Balogun, USA – After his one-game red-card ban was suspended by Fifa, Balogun will once again be the USA's biggest threat in the attacking third. The Monaco striker is enjoying a breakout tournament.
How to watch the World Cup games today
Portugal v Spain (3pm ET): United States: Fox / Telemundo (Stream on Fubo); Canada: TSN (Stream); United Kingdom: BBC One (Stream); Australia: SBS (Stream)
USA v Belgium (8pm ET): United States: Fox / Telemundo (Stream on Fubo); Canada: TSN (Stream); United Kingdom: BBC One (Stream); Australia: SBS (Stream)
Folarin Balogun is available to play for the USA in their last-16 tie against Belgium, as confirmed by Fifa's suspension of his red-card ban. The striker is a key figure for the co-hosts.
