World Cup today: Messi and Salah in action as round of 32 comes to an end

Jul 3, 2026 #Bulletin, #Sport, #The Independent

Spain make a statement with dominant World Cup last-32 win against Austria – report

The final round of 32 fixtures take place on Friday as the 2026 World Cup knockout rounds continue.
The first game of the day sees Australia take on Egypt in Dallas. The Socceroos will be hoping to keep Egypt’s star man Mo Salah at bay during the game which kicks off at 7pm BST (2pm ET).
The winner of that game will play the winner of Argentina v Cape Verde – which is the second game of the day.
After holding Spain to a draw in the group stages, Cape Verde will be looking to top that achievement with victory over Messi’s Argentina. The game kicks off at 11pm BST (6pm ET).
The last of the round of 32 matches sees Colombia take on Ghana in Kansas. The winner of the game, which kicks off at 2.30am Saturday BST (9.30pm Friday ET), will face Switzerland in the last 16.