What is the Round of 32?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first tournament with 48 teams. This expanded format introduces a new Round of 32 between the group stage and the Round of 16.
How the Knockout Stage Works
- 48 teams compete in 12 groups of 4 teams each
- The top 2 teams from each group advance (24 teams)
- The best 8 third-place teams also advance (8 teams)
- 32 teams enter the Round of 32 knockout stage
- Winners advance to the Round of 16, then Quarter-finals, Semi-finals, and Final
Could Canada Play at BC Place?
If Canada wins Group B, they would play this Round of 32 match at BC Place in Vancouver. This would be an incredible home knockout game for the host nation and Canadian fans.
BC Place Stadium Vancouver
BC Place Stadium hosts its first knockout match of the tournament. The atmosphere for elimination football is unlike anything else. Every moment matters, and the tension is incredible.
Stadium Facts
- Seating Capacity: 54,500 for FIFA World Cup matches
- Roof Type: Retractable roof (covered stadium)
- Surface: Artificial turf (temporary natural grass for World Cup)
- Opened: 1983
- Location: Downtown Vancouver, British Columbia
Getting to BC Place
BC Place is easy to reach by public transit. The Stadium-Chinatown SkyTrain station is just a 7-minute walk away. For detailed directions including parking, transit, and walking routes, visit our main guide.
View Full Directions GuideTicket Information
Knockout stage tickets are in very high demand. Teams and their fans will do anything to support their nation in elimination matches. Buy only from the official FIFA ticketing platform.
Ticket Details
- Status: High Demand - Random Selection Draw until January 13, 2026
- Price Range:
- Category 3 (Standard seats): C$370 CAD
- Category 2 (Better seats): C$700 CAD
- Category 1 (Best seats): C$980 CAD
- Official Sales: FIFA Ticket Portal
- Dynamic Pricing: Knockout stage prices may be higher
Warning: Avoid Fake Tickets
Knockout stage matches attract even more scammers. Only buy tickets from the official FIFA website.
If someone offers tickets at the last minute, be very careful!
Teams to be Determined
The teams for this match will be determined after the group stage ends on June 30, 2026.
Expected matchup:
- Team 1: Winner of Group B (could be Canada, Switzerland, Qatar, or the 4th team in Group B)
- Team 2: One of the best third-place teams from Groups E, F, G, I, or J
Check back after the group stage for confirmed teams!
Why This Match Could Feature Canada
Canada is in Group B with Switzerland and Qatar. If Canada wins their group by beating Qatar and drawing or winning against Switzerland, they would play this Round of 32 match at home in Vancouver.
Weather in Vancouver - July 2
Early July brings the best of Vancouver's summer weather. Warm, sunny days and comfortable evenings are typical for this time of year.
Temperature
Average High: 21°C (70°F)
Average Low: 14°C (57°F)
Conditions
Warm and sunny - perfect World Cup weather
What to Wear
Summer clothing. Represent your team with their colors!
All Vancouver 2026 Matches at BC Place
BC Place Stadium will host 7 FIFA World Cup 2026 matches. Here is the complete schedule:
| Date | Match | Teams | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 13 | Match 6 | Australia vs D4 | Group D |
| June 18 | Match 27 | Canada vs Qatar | Group B |
| June 21 | Match 40 | New Zealand vs Egypt | Group G |
| June 24 | Match 51 | Switzerland vs Canada | Group B |
| June 26 | Match 64 | New Zealand vs Belgium | Group G |
| July 2 | Match 85 | Round of 32 | Knockout |
| July 7 | Match 96 | Round of 16 | Knockout |
Match Prediction
Who will win this Round of 32 knockout match? Teams to be determined after group stage!
Knockout Stage Drama
Round of 32 matches are win-or-go-home. If the match is tied after 90 minutes, there will be 30 minutes of extra time. If still tied, the match goes to a penalty shootout. The drama is incredible!
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Round of 32 Match 85 start in Vancouver?
The match kicks off at 8:00 PM Pacific Time on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at BC Place Stadium.
What is the Round of 32?
The 2026 World Cup has 48 teams, up from 32 at previous tournaments. A new Round of 32 has been added between the group stage and Round of 16.
Could Canada play in this match?
Yes! If Canada wins Group B, they would play this Round of 32 match in Vancouver. It would be an incredible home knockout match.
What happens if the match is tied?
In knockout matches, there must be a winner. If tied after 90 minutes, matches go to 30 minutes of extra time. If still tied, there's a penalty shootout.
Are knockout stage tickets more expensive?
Yes, knockout stage tickets typically cost more than group stage tickets due to higher demand and the importance of the matches.
When will we know the teams for this match?
The teams will be confirmed after the group stage ends on June 30, 2026. Check back then for updated information!