World Cup fever grips Jamaica as knockout rounds begin across North America

Football fever has taken hold across Jamaica as the 2026 FIFA World Cup pushes into the knockout stage, with supporters tracking daily action from host nations the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The expanded 48-team format has produced heavy scoring, sharp skill, and plenty of spectacle. Lionel Messi already has five goals, while Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Erling Haaland, and Cristiano Ronaldo — who has scored at six separate World Cups — remain central figures. Lesser-known names have also grabbed attention, including a 40-year-old goalkeeper from Cape Verde whose saves helped his side hold Spain to a draw, and a Curaçao keeper who made 15 stops in one match after conceding seven in his opening game. Off the pitch, travelling fans and colourful supporters — from tartan-clad Scots to Japan's post-match cleaners — have added to the carnival atmosphere.

Sportscaster Neville Bell said he feared the move from 32 to 48 teams would water down the competition, but smaller nations have performed strongly. He praised the volume of goals and the form of Messi, Mbappé, Ronaldo, and Neymar, and said Brazil's more collective approach has been a highlight. Bell pointed to 15 saves by the Curaçao goalkeeper as among the most gripping moments so far, and described Canada's young player who suffered a broken leg — with the opponent later banned for five matches — as the most poignant. He backs France as a leading contender, names Japan as a dangerous outsider, and noted a German analyst who correctly predicted the last three winners now tips the Netherlands. On African teams, he said they have strong players but can look naive against the toughest sides.

Bell also clarified broadcast arrangements after some viewers expected every match live on one channel. TVJ and Rush Sports share World Cup rights: of 104 games, each carries 52 live, though all fixtures are shown across the two outlets on free-to-air television.

Across the island, flags hang from cars and crowds gather at spots such as Tracks and Records. Supporters lean toward Brazil, Argentina, and France, often citing flair, family tradition, or Messi's brilliance. "Football brings the field level," one fan said, adding that despite everything else, people can come together and have fun. Asked to name the greatest player of all time, Bell answered: "It must be Pelé because he's the only player to win three World Cups."