Gazzetta dello Sport: Argentina's Path to Semifinals Cleared

Argentina appears to have a clear path to the World Cup semifinals, while four European giants – Germany, France, Spain, and Portugal – risk clashing as early as the Round of 16. This is according to an analysis by "Gazzetta dello Sport" regarding the 2026 World Cup bracket.

"The real game begins now. The World Cup is entering its decisive knockout phase. Of the 48 teams that started, 32 remain, and from this point on, every mistake means a direct trip home. But looking at the bracket, which of the big teams got the luckiest draw?

Upon analysis, it immediately becomes clear how two potential finalists have landed in the same half of the bracket. As early as the Round of 16, Nagelsmann's Germany, who will face Paraguay in the Round of 32, could meet France, who play Sweden. The winner of this potential clash could then face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the quarterfinals, who also meet in that phase. Their opponent in the Round of 16 will be the winner of the much easier match between South Africa and Canada," writes the Milanese publication.

"De La Fuente's Spain faces a not-too-difficult Round of 32 match against Ralf Rangnick's Austria. However, the level will significantly rise in a potential Round of 16 clash, where they could face either Portugal or Croatia in a match promising plenty of spectacle.

"Brazil will play Japan in the Round of 32, and if successful, they await the winner of the Ivory Coast – Norway pairing. A clash with England is then possible in the quarterfinals. Before that, however, Thomas Tuchel's team must overcome DR Congo, which is quite likely, and in the Round of 16 – the winner of the match between Mexico and the surprise package Ecuador," continues "Gazzetta dello Sport"'s analysis.

"Fate has smiled upon the reigning world champions. Messi's Argentina seems to have a clear path to the semifinals, considering that on paper, their schedule looks anything but impossible. In the Round of 32, the 'Albiceleste' will face Cape Verde – perhaps the weakest team among the remaining 32 in the competition. In the Round of 16, Messi and company will play the winner of the Australia - Egypt match, and in the quarterfinals, they will meet one of Switzerland, Algeria, Colombia, or Ghana. It certainly doesn't look like a difficult road to defending the title won in Qatar," concludes the most widely circulated Italian sports daily.