The final two Round of 16 matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup promise contrasting contests. Argentina face Egypt as one of the tournament favourites looks to continue its march towards the latter stages, while Switzerland and Colombia meet in what appears to be one of the most evenly matched knockout ties of the round.

Argentina vs Egypt

Argentina enter the match as clear favourites and remain one of the strongest teams left in the competition. Pre-tournament projections placed them among the leading contenders to lift the trophy, and their overall squad quality, tournament experience and attacking talent give them a significant advantage over Egypt.

Egypt deserve enormous credit for reaching this stage. Their penalty shootout victory over Australia demonstrated resilience, discipline and composure under pressure. However, knockout football often comes down to whether an underdog can consistently withstand pressure for 90 minutes, and that challenge becomes far greater against a team of Argentina’s calibre.

Argentina’s route to the Round of 16 was not entirely straightforward, requiring a 3-2 victory over Cape Verde. That result may serve as a warning that defensive concentration cannot slip, but it also highlighted the attacking quality available throughout the squad.

For Egypt, the likely approach will be to remain compact, frustrate Argentina in midfield and look for opportunities from counter-attacks and set pieces. If they can keep the game level deep into the second half, the pressure may begin to shift towards the favourites.

Nevertheless, Argentina should enjoy more possession, create more chances and eventually find the breakthrough.

Correct Score Prediction

Argentina 2-0 Egypt

Argentina’s superior quality should be enough to avoid extra time, although Egypt are capable of making the contest competitive for long periods.

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Switzerland vs Colombia

The second tie looks considerably more difficult to call.

Switzerland have built a reputation over recent tournaments as one of international football’s most organised and consistent knockout teams. Their defensive structure, discipline and tactical flexibility often make them difficult opponents, particularly in matches where margins are small.

Colombia, meanwhile, possess greater attacking unpredictability. They are capable of producing moments of individual quality that can change a match instantly and have shown throughout recent tournaments that they are comfortable playing against stronger opponents.

This contest may ultimately be decided in midfield. Switzerland will look to control the tempo and minimise transitions, while Colombia will attempt to increase the pace of the game and exploit spaces when possession changes hands.

Set pieces could also prove decisive. In a game where clear-cut chances may be limited, dead-ball situations and defensive concentration are likely to carry extra importance.

The probabilities suggest there is little separating the two teams, making this one of the most difficult Round of 16 matches to assess. Switzerland’s tournament reliability gives them a marginal edge, but only by the smallest of margins.

Correct Score Prediction

Switzerland 1-1 Colombia (Switzerland win after extra time)

A cautious opening is expected, with neither side willing to take excessive risks. The game could easily require extra time before Switzerland’s experience in tight knockout contests eventually proves decisive.

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Predicted Outcomes

– Argentina vs Egypt: Argentina to win 2-0
– Switzerland vs Colombia: 1-1 after 90 minutes, Switzerland to qualify after extra time