Down to Two: Argentina and Colombia Carry Latin America at the World Cup

Latin America · World Cup

Latin America’s World Cup has narrowed to two. A dramatic Sunday knocked out both Brazil and Mexico, leaving Argentina and Colombia to carry the region’s hopes into last-16 ties on Tuesday.

Brazil and Mexico fall

Norway stunned Brazil in the last 16, with Erling Haaland scoring twice to send the five-time champions out. Neymar’s late penalty was only a consolation.

Hours later, England won 3-2 at a storm-delayed Azteca, becoming the first team to beat Mexico in a World Cup at the famous stadium. Jude Bellingham scored twice and Harry Kane converted a penalty, and England held on with ten men.

The last two standing

That leaves Argentina and Colombia as the region’s only survivors, both into the last 16. Argentina, the holders, face Egypt in Atlanta on Tuesday, while Colombia play their tie in Vancouver the same day.

Argentina needed extra time to get past Cape Verde in the previous round, while Colombia have looked assured on their run. Between them they carry Latin America’s hopes of a place in the quarterfinals.

Where to watch on Tuesday

Buenos Aires runs its free Fan Fest at Plaza Seeber, and Bogotá and Medellín set up public screens for Colombia’s tie. Rio and São Paulo fan zones pivot to the neutral’s choice now that Brazil are out.

Kickoff times fall in the evening across the region, so check yours before heading out. Expect the bars and squares to fill for both matches.

What it means

For expat fans, the region’s run is down to a straight two-team hope, with a Latin American quarterfinalist no longer guaranteed. Argentina and Colombia must both win on Tuesday to keep two regional sides in the last eight.

Either way, the knockouts have thinned the field fast, and the quarterfinals begin on Thursday. The tournament now runs to its climax over the following two weeks.

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