The World Cup knockout stage begins with co-host Canada playing first, setting the tone for a run of elimination matches. Multiple outlets describe a 10-day schedule in which teams compete in a win-or-go-home format, leading from the opening knockout games through the next phases of the tournament. Canada’s first match is highlighted as a successful start, with the country winning its opening knockout game on Sunday to begin the stretch of high-stakes fixtures. From there, the tournament moves into consecutive days of matches that determine which teams advance and which are eliminated. The coverage frames the knockout phase as a shift from group play to direct advancement, with each game carrying immediate consequences for teams’ tournament hopes. The articles emphasize the arrival of the knockout stage and the steady cadence of matches over the next ten days for international fans, beginning with Canada’s kickoff appearance.