Harry Diamond 02/07/2026 1comment  |  Jump to last

The World Cup last-32 action continues this evening with European champions Spain up against Austria.

Luis de la Fuente's side recovered from a goalless stalemate with Cape Verde to progress from the groups with minimal fuss, and next face an Austria side that required a dramatic last-gasp equaliser against Algeria to rescue their tournament.

That clash is followed by an intriguing match-up between Portugal and Croatia, as Ballon d'Or-winning golden oldies Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric go head-to-head.

Ronaldo will be bidding to finally get his hands on the World Cup, if ex-Everton gaffer Roberto Martinez can successfully merge a talented team together.

In the early hours of Friday morning for those based in the UK, Switzerland take on Algeria. 

 

Thursday 2 July 2026

20:00 Spain vs Austria — BBC 1
00:00 Portugal vs Croatia — BBC 1
04:00 Switzerland vs Algeria — BBC 1

 

Reader Comments (1)

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Ray Jacques
1 Posted 02/07/2026 at 15:48:56
Hardly watched any games. I think its a combination of too many meaningless and unattractive games, the time difference, games in three different countries over a vast area, so it doesnt seem like a tournament (not sure why this matters whilst watching on TV!), the ridiculous drinks break, or the stupid format where teams can come third in a group of four and still qualify whilst their fans hang around for a week to see if they will get another game.

It is just like the Champions League format now, bloated, over extended and not just the best teams.

Anything to make money from TV and hope the fans will embrace it. It just doesn't feel like a World Cup.

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