World Cup 2026 Round of 32 Results: July 3 Match Recap

Published Jul. 4, 2026, 7:09 PM

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 delivered a thrilling day of football on July 3, with three matches producing drama, extra time, and narrow finishes that sent fans across the globe into a frenzy.

Egypt Edge Out Australia on Penalties

In what was arguably the most dramatic match of the day, Egypt and Australia played out a tense 1-1 draw through 90 minutes before the game was forced into extra time. With neither side able to break the deadlock, the tie went to a penalty shootout — where Egypt held their nerve to advance 4-2 on spot kicks. It was a heartbreaking exit for the Socceroos, who gave everything but ultimately fell short in the cruelest of fashions.

Argentina Survive Cabo Verde Scare

World Cup favorites Argentina were made to work harder than expected against an energetic Cabo Verde side. The South American giants took a 3-2 victory, but the scoreline tells the story of a match that was far from comfortable. Cabo Verde's relentless attacking play kept Argentina's defense on edge throughout, and the two-goal response from the underdogs will be remembered as one of the tournament's standout performances so far — even in defeat.

Colombia Grind Out Win Over Ghana

Colombia secured a narrow but important 1-0 victory over Ghana to progress to the next round. It was a tight, tactical affair with few clear-cut chances, but Colombia's clinical finishing proved to be the difference. Ghana will feel they deserved more from the game, but Colombia advance with their defensive record intact.

The Round of 32 continues in the coming days, with more high-stakes clashes on the horizon as the tournament heats up.