We are two weeks into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the knockout rounds starting after the group stages concluded.

On Monday morning, co-hosts Canada left it late to beat South Africa to win through to the round of 16 for the first time in men’s World Cup history.

So, what have been the key moments so far and what are the most important games to watch as the tournament heats up?

The group stages delivered plenty

Despite numerous controversies in the lead-up, coverage of the tournament has been largely positive, on and off the pitch.

News coverage has praised visiting fans, particularly those from Scotland and Japan.

Scotland’s first two matches, against Haiti and Morocco, were both held in Boston. This was Scotland’s first World Cup appearance in 28 years and their fans were keen to celebrate.

The “Tartan Army” made a big impression, primarily with their bagpipes, their fondness for putting traffic cones on famous sculptures, their singing and their drinking.

Pubs ran out of beer and had to schedule emergency deliveries, as sales were triple those seen on other busy drinking occasions such as St Patrick’s Day and the Superbowl.

The Boston Globe newspaper devoted a full page to thank Scottish fans as they left to go to Miami for their final group match against Brazil.

Japanese supporters continued their tradition of helping clean the stadium after games.

Norwegian fans also........

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