New Delhi, July 4 (IANS) Former Republic of Ireland and Manchester City defender Terry Phelan believes mentality and concentration will prove decisive as the FIFA World Cup 2026 enters the knockout stage, where every mistake could prove costly.

With the tournament reaching the Round of 16, Phelan stressed that the margin for error has disappeared and only teams capable of handling the pressure will progress.

“It’s a do-or-die situation now. The top players have to show that winning mentality individually and collectively because there’s no margin for mistakes. A lapse of concentration can cost you,” said Phelan, who is part of expert panel in Zee5 FIFA World Cup 2026 coverage.

Among the leading contenders, Phelan feels France have quietly built momentum despite attracting less attention than some of the tournament favourites.

“France have gone under the radar. Everyone is talking about England, Spain, Portugal and Argentina, but France have been doing things the right way. They could surprise a lot of people,” he said.

The knockout phase has also intensified the race for the Golden Boot, with Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane, Erling Haaland and Cristiano Ronaldo all aiming to inspire their respective nations into the quarter-finals.

“This is why you pay the big money for top strikers. They keep delivering on the biggest stage, and it’s wonderful to see them competing for the Golden Boot,” Phelan added.

One of the standout Round of 16 fixtures will see Portugal take on Spain, with Cristiano Ronaldo continuing his pursuit of a maiden FIFA World Cup title. With Lionel Messi also leading Argentina’s campaign, Phelan urged fans to cherish the legendary rivalry between the two football icons. However, Phelan urged the fans to enjoy one of the greatest rivalries of football while they can.

“Let’s enjoy them while we can. The debate will always continue, but if one of them lifts the World Cup, it’ll only add another chapter to their incredible rivalry,” he said.

Phelan also underlined the growing importance of defensive discipline in the knockout rounds, where even a momentary lapse can decide a contest.

“Concentration is everything in knockout football. It only takes a second for the ball to end up in the back of the net, so defenders have to stay switched on from the first whistle to the last,” he said.

Despite the presence of several strong contenders, Phelan believes defending champions Argentina remain the team to beat.

“Argentina look dominant. They look like gladiators, and they mean business. With Lionel Messi leading them, I think they’re the team everybody has to beat,” he said.

With quarter-final spots on the line and no room for error, the Round of 16 promises high-intensity contests as the FIFA World Cup 2026 moves closer to its climax.

–IANS

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