The 2026 World Cup is set to progress to the round of 16 on Saturday, with the competition now narrowed from the initial 32 teams that advanced from the group stage to the intense “knockout” format.
There’s still a lot of soccer action remaining, presenting numerous opportunities to place some bets.
With a wide array of betting options available for these upcoming eight games, it can be a bit daunting to decide where to start. However, Victoria Matiash and Liz Loza have analyzed the landscape and pinpointed their top picks as the competition heats up for a spot in the quarterfinals.
*Odds reflect the time of publication. To check the latest odds, visit DK Sports
Total saves (90 minutes), Yassine Bounou, 3+ (+105)
Canada has been making headlines with a historic performance, while Morocco continues to showcase its tenacity. The co-hosts are leading the tournament with 70 shots (28 on target) across four matches. Bounou, expected to guard the net for the Atlas Lions, has thrilled fans with key saves and impressive penalty performances, recording six saves (including a clean sheet against Scotland) in regulation time. “Bono” is poised for action as they face Canada again, after their memorable 2-1 victory in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup. — Loza
Over 9.5 total corners (+130)
With a total of 39 corners in four matches, Canada leads the tournament in corner kicks. Midfielder Stephen Eustáquio is tied with Germany for the most corners individually, amassing 34. Morocco isn’t far behind, ranking eighth in the tournament with 24 corners. The average shows Canada earning 9.8 corners per match and Morocco 6.0. While we may not see a total of 15 corners in this match, reaching 10 seems plausible, especially since Jesse Marsch’s squad, without pressure against the sixth-ranked nation, is expected to play aggressively. — Matiash
Total assists, Michael Olise, 1+ (+145)
Olise has become a pivotal playmaker for France, focusing on setting up his teammates rather than scoring himself. He leads the tournament with five assists—three of which assisted goals for teammate Kylian Mbappé. With an opportunity to break Pelé’s long-standing World Cup record of six assists from 1970, Olise’s skills should shine as France takes on Paraguay, which has allowed four assists from top-20 ranked opponents. — Loza
Mexico to advance, (+115)
Despite their creativity, Thomas Tuchel’s squad has faced challenges in finishing, relying heavily on Harry Kane to step up. Kane has responded well, netting five goals to carry the team forward. Meanwhile, Mexico has not conceded a single goal throughout the tournament, advancing to the round of 16 with an impressive defensive record. With a lively home crowd behind them, El Tri‘s dynamic offense could capitalize on England’s defensive shortcomings, leading to a surprising upset in this match. — Loza
Norway, DRAW (+280) and Erling Haaland, anytime goal scorer (+115)
Despite Erik Haaland’s comments suggesting slim chances for his team’s advancement, Norway is not a significant underdog. Aside from a recent group stage loss to France, where many regulars were rested, they have only one loss since October 2024—a 2-1 defeat to the Netherlands in a friendly. Brazil remains a strong contender, yet recent performances indicate they are vulnerable. While Brazil holds the edge, the probability of this match going into extra time is appealing. A goal from Haaland, who expressed dissatisfaction with his effort against the Ivory Coast, could certainly propel Norway through regulation. — Matiash
Bonus: You can also parlay these two bets for +717 odds.
Spain, to WIN, -1.5 (+260)
Spain is leading the tournament in many statistical categories, including expected goals with a total of 8.83. Competing against well-ranked teams like Austria and Uruguay, they have maintained four clean sheets. Given that Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates barely edged past Croatia recently, the -1.5 odds on Spain are enticing. — Matiash