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Lionel Messi stays on the hunt for back-to-back FIFA World Cup trophies, while Cristiano Ronaldo still has a chance to win one as Portugal, Argentina, Germany, Spain, and Brazil all enter knockout stage.
The group stage drama is over. African teams surprised everybody with their performances, as 9 of the 10 teams from the continent progressed through to the round of 32.
After three weeks of unforgettable football across the United States, Canada and Mexico, the FIFA World Cup 2026 now enters its first knockout phase. Traditional powerhouses survived, underdogs emerged, and several established nations were sent packing in one of the most unpredictable group stages in recent memory.
From Brazil’s attacking brilliance to Cape Verde’s fairy-tale run, the Round of 32 promises blockbuster encounters and fresh storylines as the race toward New York intensifies.
Group Stage Recap
Group A: Mexico and South Africa march on
Co-hosts Mexico lived up to expectations, topping Group A with an unbeaten record and energising packed home crowds throughout the group stage. South Africa secured second place after a disciplined and resilient campaign.
South Korea narrowly missed out on automatic qualification but advanced among the best third-placed teams, while Czechia became the group’s surprise elimination.
Group B: Canada impress on home soil
Canada topped Group B after combining attacking intent with defensive solidity. Switzerland also progressed comfortably, while Bosnia and Herzegovina sneaked into the knockout rounds as one of the best third-placed teams.
Hosts Qatar endured a disappointing campaign, finishing bottom despite home support.
Group C: Brazil sparkle, Morocco shine again
Brazil looked every bit title contenders, finishing top of Group C with maximum points and a wealth of attacking options. Morocco continued their remarkable World Cup rise by claiming second place.
Scotland’s spirited performances were not enough to progress, while Haiti exited despite earning their first-ever World Cup point.
Group D: USA edge tight group
The United States emerged from perhaps the tournament’s most competitive group, edging Paraguay to top spot. Australia also advanced as one of the best third-placed teams after a strong finish.
Turkey suffered heartbreak on the final matchday, missing out on qualification by the narrowest of margins.
Group E: Germany rediscover rhythm
Germany silenced early critics with commanding displays to top Group E. Ivory Coast joined them in the knockout rounds after a series of impressive performances.
Curacao won admirers with fearless football but narrowly missed qualification, while Ecuador’s campaign never truly gathered momentum.
Group F: Dutch efficiency prevails
The Netherlands cruised through Group F unbeaten, combining defensive organisation with clinical finishing. Japan secured second place after a decisive final-day victory.
Sweden progressed as a best third-placed side, while Tunisia exited despite pushing both qualifiers deep into matches.
Group G: Belgium hold off challengers
Belgium finished top of Group G but were pushed all the way by an energetic Egypt side. Both nations advanced, while Iran’s hopes remained alive long enough to qualify among the best third-placed teams.
New Zealand exited with heads held high after a spirited campaign.
Group H: Spain dominate, Cape Verde create history
Spain were among the most impressive teams of the group stage, winning all three matches and scoring freely. Cape Verde produced one of the stories of the tournament by reaching the knockout stage for the first time in their history.
Saudi Arabia and Uruguay both suffered disappointing early exits.
Group I: France survive scare
France recovered from an opening setback to finish top of Group I. Senegal also advanced after showcasing their trademark athleticism and defensive discipline.
Norway fell agonisingly short of qualification, while Iraq exited after an encouraging tournament debut.
Group J: Argentina ease through
Argentina progressed comfortably as Group J winners, with Lionel Messi continuing to inspire the reigning champions. Algeria secured second place after a strong defensive campaign.
Austria advanced as a best third-placed nation, while Jordan bowed out despite several spirited displays.
Group K: Portugal and DR Congo advance
Portugal topped Group K unbeaten, but DR Congo emerged as one of the revelations of the tournament by securing second place.
Uzbekistan narrowly advanced among the best third-placed teams, while Colombia’s early elimination stunned many observers.
Group L: England find momentum
England recovered from an inconsistent start to finish top of Group L. Croatia also booked their place in the knockout rounds.
Ghana progressed as a best third-placed team, while Panama exited after collecting just a single point.
Round of 32 Fixtures
- Brazil vs Japan
- Germany vs Paraguay
- Netherlands vs Morocco
- Ivory Coast vs Norway
- France vs Sweden
- Mexico vs Ecuador
- England vs DR Congo
- Belgium vs Senegal
- United States vs Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Spain vs Austria
- Portugal vs Croatia
- Switzerland vs Algeria
- Australia vs Egypt
- Argentina vs Cape Verde
- Colombia vs Ghana
- South Africa vs Canada
The knockout stage begins with South Africa taking on Canada, before attention quickly shifts to heavyweight clashes involving Brazil, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal and defending champions Argentina.
There will be no second chances from here. The road to the World Cup final starts now.
