FIFA World Cup: All knockout stage fixtures confirmed

The full knockout bracket for the FIFA World Cup has been confirmed following the conclusion of the group stage, setting the path to the final and locking in kick-off times for New Zealand viewers.

The expanded tournament format has produced a longer group phase and a deeper knockout draw, meaning more matches in the New Zealand overnight and early-morning windows than in previous editions.

For local supporters the immediate interest is scheduling. Broadcast times determine how much of the tournament is realistically watchable, and the knockout rounds cluster in the small hours here.

Beyond the bracket, the group stage produced the usual reshuffling of expectations, with several fancied sides advancing narrowly and at least one traditional power exiting earlier than seeded position suggested.