The 2026 World Cup is in full swing, and even though the DFB team—featuring a large contingent of Bayern Munich players—has already been eliminated, several stars from the record-holding champions are still in the tournament.
In addition to the DFB players led by Jamal Musiala, Manuel Neuer, and Jonathan Tah, pros like Hiroki Ito (Japan), Min-jae Kim (South Korea), and Konrad Laimer (Austria) have also had to bow out early.
For Bayern, however, this doesn’t have to be too much of a problem, as the fact that one or two players are back with the team earlier than perhaps expected and can start training right away might actually help the team find a better rhythm at the start of the season.
Two Bayern Stars to Face Off in the Season Opener
The Round of 16 matches begin today, Saturday, with FC Bayern playing a major role. Morocco and Canada face off at 7 p.m. For the co-hosts, Alphonso Davies could even be in contention for the starting lineup for the first time after making his comeback in the Round of 32.
The Canadians are the underdogs, while Morocco is the favorite. This is partly due to the very strong performances so far by Ismael Saibari, who has since been presented as a new signing in Munich.
Later that same evening, at 11 p.m., France will face Paraguay, the team that defeated Germany. Dayot Upamecano and Michael Olise are both expected to start and will look to make their mark on the game.
Will Kane defy the co-hosts?
The action continues at 2 a.m. on Monday morning. That’s when Harry Kane and the Three Lions take on Mexico. There were initial discussions about postponing this match due to expected inclement weather, but it will most likely go ahead as scheduled. Kane and his English team will then have to withstand the full force of the Azteca Stadium.
Finally, there’s Luis Díaz. The Bayern Munich attacking star will face Switzerland on Tuesday at 10 p.m. and aims to lead his team into the quarterfinals.