The 2026 FIFA World Cup has produced one of the biggest shocks in tournament history, with all three host nations — the United States, Canada and Mexico — eliminated in the Round of 16, marking the first time no host country has reached the quarter-finals of a World Cup jointly staged by three nations.
The United States became the last of the co-hosts to bow out after suffering a crushing 4-1 defeat to Belgium in Seattle on Monday night, despite featuring star striker Folarin Balogun amid intense pre-match controversy.
The defeat completed a miserable Round of 16 campaign for the host nations.
Canada were the first to fall after a 3-0 defeat to Morocco on July 4, while Mexico’s hopes ended a day later following a hard-fought 3-2 loss to England. The United States then rounded off the disappointing outing with their heavy defeat to Belgium.
The unprecedented exits have shattered the long-held belief that home advantage significantly boosts World Cup hosts, with none of the three co-hosts managing to progress beyond the Round of 16.
The historic outcome has already become one of the defining storylines of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a related development, Portugal and their captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, have also been eliminated from the tournament after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16.
The loss ended Ronaldo’s quest to lift the FIFA World Cup trophy, but the Portuguese legend remained proud of his achievements with the national team.
Reflecting on Portugal’s exit, Ronaldo said he departs the tournament with a clear conscience, insisting he gave everything for his country.
“I’ve won three titles with Portugal. Before Cristiano, Portugal won nothing. The biggest title I won with the national team was EURO 2016, and to me, it has the same value as winning the World Cup.
“That’s why I’m leaving with a clear conscience. I gave it my best shot and that’s that. Tomorrow will be a new day and life goes on,” he said.
Although Portugal’s World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, Ronaldo’s remarks underscored the pride he takes in helping transform the fortunes of the national team, having led them to their first major international title at UEFA Euro 2016.
With the Round of 16 now concluded, the 2026 FIFA World Cup has already delivered unforgettable drama, stunning upsets and historic exits, setting the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested quarter-final round.
