World Cup introduces historic Round of 32, sparking debate on new format's impact

The expanded FIFA World Cup 2026 format, now featuring 48 teams and an additional Round of 32, has ignited considerable discussion among football enthusiasts and experts. Critics, including veteran manager Carlos Queiroz, express concerns that the larger field could diminish the tournament's exclusivity and competitive intensity, arguing that "money talks" have influenced the format changes. Conversely, proponents highlight the increased opportunities for more nations to participate, fostering diverse matchups and adding new layers of intrigue to the qualification process where eight best third-placed teams also advance.

Amidst this debate, co-host nation Canada has achieved a historic milestone in the tournament, progressing to the Round of 16 for the first time in their World Cup history. This remarkable achievement was sealed with a late 1-0 victory over South Africa in the inaugural Round of 32 match. Canada's strong performance also included earning their first-ever group stage point and securing a record-breaking 6-0 win against Qatar, showcasing a significant advancement for the team on the global stage.