The FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage is complete. All 72 matches across 12 World Cup 2026 groups have been played, and the 32 teams advancing to the knockout rounds are confirmed. The round of 32 kicks off on June 28 with South Africa vs Canada at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
This hub covers every FIFA World Cup 2026 group’s final standings, every team’s result, the full round of 32 bracket, and the third-place qualification outcomes that defined this expanded format.
Qualified for Round of 32 (32 teams): Mexico, USA, Germany, Argentina, France, Norway, Colombia, Switzerland, Brazil, Morocco, South Africa, Canada, Ivory Coast, Netherlands, Japan, Australia, Belgium, Egypt, Spain, Cape Verde, England, Croatia, Portugal, DR Congo, Paraguay, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sweden, Ecuador, Senegal, Algeria, Ghana
Eliminated from World Cup 2026 (16 teams): Haiti, Türkiye, Tunisia, Jordan, Uzbekistan, Panama, Czechia, Qatar, Curaçao, New Zealand, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran, South Korea, Scotland
ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final schedule — dates, teams, and bracket
(updated on July 6, 2026)
Table of Contents
How FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualification Works: Group Stage Rules and Third-Place Qualification
Before diving into the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification scenarios group by group, it is important to understand how teams qualify for the round of 32 under this expanded format. The World Cup 2026 groups follow a three-match round-robin format. The top two teams from each of the 12 groups advance automatically. Then the eight best third-place teams across all 12 groups also qualify, giving 32 teams a place in the knockout rounds.
The tiebreaker system for World Cup 2026 standings within each group is different from previous tournaments. FIFA’s first tiebreaker is now head-to-head results between the teams level on points, not overall goal difference. If teams are still tied after the head-to-head criteria, the tiebreakers move to overall goal difference, then goals scored, then team conduct score (yellow and red cards), and finally the latest FIFA World Ranking.
For third-place qualification, the eight best third-place teams are ranked by points first, then goal difference, goals scored, team conduct score, and FIFA ranking. This makes the world cup group qualification rules significantly more complicated than any previous World Cup format, because a team finishing third in one group might go through while a third-place team with identical points in another group might not.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Bracket Explained: How the Round of 32 Knockout Stage Works
The FIFA World Cup 2026 bracket introduces a round of 32 for the first time in World Cup history. This round sits between the group stage and the traditional round of 16, meaning the knockout stage now has five rounds instead of four: Round of 32, Round of 16, Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals, and the Final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The bracket is fixed and predetermined. Eight of the 12 group winners face a third-place qualifier, while four group winners face group runners-up. The remaining group runners-up face other group runners-up. Which specific third-place teams slot into which bracket position depends on which eight of the 12 groups produce a qualifying third-place team, with FIFA pre-publishing 495 possible combination scenarios covering every permutation.
Group winners are rewarded with a theoretically easier path. The bracket splits into two halves, so the group you finish in and the position you finish in determines your entire route to the final. All knockout matches from the Quarter-Finals onwards are in the United States.
Round of 32 matches run from June 28 to July 3. If a match is level after 90 minutes, it goes to 30 minutes of extra time, and then a penalty shootout if still tied.
World Cup 2026 Group A Final Standings (COMPLETE)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico ✅ | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 0 | +6 | 9 |
| 2 | South Africa ✅ | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 4 |
| 3 | South Korea | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 3 |
| 4 | Czechia ❌ | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 6 | -4 | 1 |
Results: Mexico 2-0 South Africa | South Korea 2-1 Czechia | Czechia 1-1 South Africa | Mexico 1-0 South Korea | Czechia 0-3 Mexico | South Africa 1-0 South Korea
Mexico World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group A Winners
Mexico completed a perfect group stage at the FIFA World Cup 2026, winning all three matches without conceding a single goal. The 3-0 victory over Czechia on June 24 confirmed a nine-point haul, the best record of any group winner so far. As Group A winners, Mexico face a third-place team from Group C, E, F, H, or I in the round of 32, playing at Mexico City Stadium on June 30.
South Africa World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group A Runners-Up
South Africa pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, beating South Korea 1-0 on Matchday 3 thanks to Thapelo Maseko’s goal, to qualify for the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in the nation’s history. Bafana Bafana finished second in Group A on four points. In the round of 32, South Africa face the Group B runner-up, Canada, on June 28 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
South Korea World Cup 2026 Qualification Scenario — Third Place, Awaiting Outcome
South Korea’s shock 1-0 defeat to South Africa dropped them to third in Group A on three points with a -1 goal difference. Their World Cup 2026 fate now depends on whether they finish among the eight best third-place teams across all 12 groups. Three points is on the lower end of what may be required, and South Korea will need results elsewhere to go their way.
Czechia World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
Czechia were eliminated after a 3-0 loss to Mexico on Matchday 3. One point from three matches and a -4 goal difference ends their World Cup 2026.
World Cup 2026 Group B Final Standings (COMPLETE)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Switzerland ✅ | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 3 | +4 | 7 |
| 2 | Canada ✅ | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 8 | 4 | +4 | 4 |
| 3 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 6 | -1 | 4 |
| 4 | Qatar ❌ | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 10 | -8 | 1 |
Results: Canada 1-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina | Switzerland 1-1 Qatar | Switzerland 4-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina | Canada 6-0 Qatar | Switzerland 2-1 Canada | Bosnia and Herzegovina 3-1 Qatar
Switzerland World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group B Winners
Switzerland won Group B with a 2-1 victory over co-hosts Canada on June 24, finishing top on seven points. Rubén Vargas and Jonathan Manzambi scored for the Swiss before Canada pulled one back through Phylip David. As Group B winners, Switzerland face a third-place team from Group E, F, G, I, or J in the round of 32 at BC Place in Vancouver on July 2.
Canada World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group B Runners-Up
Canada’s defeat to Switzerland on Matchday 3 dropped them to second, but their four points and +4 goal difference secured automatic qualification as Group B runners-up. The co-hosts’ 6-0 demolition of Qatar on Matchday 2 proved decisive for goal difference over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Canada face South Africa in the round of 32 on June 28 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
Bosnia and Herzegovina World Cup 2026 Qualification Scenario — Third Place, Awaiting Outcome
Bosnia and Herzegovina beat Qatar 3-1 on Matchday 3, with 19-year-old Kemal Alajbegovic scoring the opener. On four points with a -1 goal difference, Bosnia’s third-place finish gives them a strong chance of advancing as one of the eight best third-place teams. Four points should be enough, but they must wait for the remaining groups to conclude.
Qatar World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
Qatar finished bottom of Group B with one point from three matches and a -8 goal difference. The 3-1 loss to Bosnia on Matchday 3 confirmed their exit.
World Cup 2026 Group C Final Standings (COMPLETE)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brazil ✅ | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 1 | +6 | 7 |
| 2 | Morocco ✅ | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 6 | 3 | +3 | 7 |
| 3 | Scotland | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 4 | -3 | 3 |
| 4 | Haiti ❌ | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 2 | 8 | -6 | 0 |
Results: Brazil 1-1 Morocco | Scotland 1-0 Haiti | Morocco 1-0 Scotland | Brazil 3-0 Haiti | Scotland 0-3 Brazil | Morocco 4-2 Haiti
ALSO READ: 5 Talking Points From Brazil Squad For World Cup 2026: Neymar Returns, Rodrygo Misses Out
Brazil World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group C Winners
Brazil won Group C with a commanding 3-0 victory over Scotland on June 24, with Vinícius Júnior scoring twice and Matheus Cunha adding a third. Both Brazil and Morocco finished on seven points, but Brazil’s superior goal difference (+6 vs +3) secured first place. In the round of 32, Brazil face the Group F runner-up, Japan, on June 29 at NRG Stadium in Houston.
Morocco World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group C Runners-Up
Morocco secured second place with a 4-2 win over Haiti on Matchday 3 after falling behind to a Bounou own goal. Achraf Hakimi, Ismael Saibari, Soufiane Rahimi, and Gessime Yassine all found the net. Morocco’s seven points and +3 goal difference were not quite enough to pip Brazil for first place. In the round of 32, Morocco face the Group F winner, the Netherlands, on June 29 in Monterrey.
Scotland World Cup 2026 Qualification Scenario — Third Place, Awaiting Outcome
Scotland’s World Cup 2026 qualification scenario ended in heartbreak as a 3-0 loss to Brazil dropped them to third on three points with a -3 goal difference. Steve Clarke’s side now face an anxious wait to see if three points is enough to finish among the eight best third-place teams. With several groups still to conclude, Scotland’s fate is not in their own hands.
Haiti World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
Haiti finished bottom of Group C with zero points from three matches, though the 4-2 loss to Morocco on Matchday 3 at least saw them register their first and second goals of the tournament, including a Bounou own goal and a William Isidor strike. Playing in their first World Cup since 1974, Haiti exit with their heads held high.
World Cup 2026 Group D Final Standings (COMPLETE)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | USA ✅ | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 8 | 4 | +4 | 6 |
| 2 | Australia ✅ | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 4 |
| 3 | Paraguay | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | -2 | 4 |
| 4 | Türkiye ❌ | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 5 | -2 | 3 |
Results: USA 4-1 Paraguay | Australia 2-0 Türkiye | USA 2-0 Australia | Paraguay 1-0 Türkiye | Türkiye 3-2 USA | Australia 0-0 Paraguay
USA World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group D Winners
The USA won Group D on six points despite a 3-2 defeat to Türkiye on Matchday 3, a game where Pochettino rested key players with qualification already secured. It is the first time since 2010 that the USA has won its group at a World Cup. In the round of 32, the USA face a third-place team from Group B, E, F, I, or J on July 1 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.
Australia World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group D Runners-Up
Australia secured second place with a goalless draw against Paraguay on Matchday 3. On four points with a level goal difference, Australia finished above Paraguay on goal difference (0 vs -2) after the head-to-head between them ended level. In the round of 32, Australia face the Group G runner-up on July 3 at AT&T Stadium in Dallas.
Paraguay World Cup 2026 Qualification Scenario — Third Place, Awaiting Outcome
Paraguay finished third on four points after the 0-0 draw with Australia. A -2 goal difference is not ideal, but four points from a completed group gives Paraguay a competitive position in the third-place rankings. They must wait for the remaining groups to conclude to learn their fate.
Türkiye World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
Türkiye salvaged pride with a 3-2 victory over the USA on Matchday 3 but finished bottom of Group D on three points. Having lost their opening two matches to Australia and Paraguay, the win came too late. In their first World Cup appearance in 24 years, Türkiye exit at the group stage.
World Cup 2026 Group E Final Standings (COMPLETE)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Germany ✅ | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 10 | 4 | +6 | 6 |
| 2 | Ivory Coast ✅ | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 2 | +2 | 6 |
| 3 | Ecuador | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 4 |
| 4 | Curaçao ❌ | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 9 | -8 | 1 |
Results: Germany 7-1 Curaçao | Ivory Coast 1-0 Ecuador | Germany 2-1 Ivory Coast | Ecuador 0-0 Curaçao | Ecuador 2-1 Germany | Curaçao 0-2 Ivory Coast
ALSO READ: 5 Talking Points From Germany Squad For World Cup 2026: Manuel Neuer Returns From Retirement
Germany World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group E Winners
Germany finished top of Group E despite a shock 2-1 defeat to Ecuador on Matchday 3. Because Germany beat Ivory Coast 2-1 in their head-to-head match on Matchday 2, they secured first place on the head-to-head tiebreaker with both teams level on six points. Germany face a third-place team from Group A, B, C, D, or F in the round of 32 at Boston Stadium on June 29. The loss to Ecuador was a reality check for Julian Nagelsmann’s side after their stunning 7-1 demolition of Curaçao.
Ivory Coast World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group E Runners-Up
Ivory Coast secured second place with a 2-0 win over Curaçao on Matchday 3, finishing on six points level with Germany but behind on head-to-head. Les Éléphants advance to the knockout rounds for the first time in their World Cup history. In the round of 32, Ivory Coast face the Group I runner-up in Dallas on June 30.
Ecuador World Cup 2026 Qualification Scenario — Third Place, Awaiting Outcome
Ecuador pulled off a memorable 2-1 upset of Germany on Matchday 3 to finish third on four points with a level goal difference. That result dramatically changes their third-place qualification prospects. Four points with a 0 goal difference gives Ecuador a strong chance of advancing as one of the eight best third-place teams, though they must wait for the remaining groups to be decided.
Curaçao World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
Curaçao were eliminated after a 2-0 loss to Ivory Coast on Matchday 3. One point from three matches and a -8 goal difference ends the Caribbean island’s debut World Cup campaign.
World Cup 2026 Group F Final Standings (COMPLETE)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Netherlands ✅ | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 10 | 4 | +6 | 7 |
| 2 | Japan ✅ | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 7 | 3 | +4 | 5 |
| 3 | Sweden | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 4 |
| 4 | Tunisia ❌ | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 2 | 12 | -10 | 0 |
Results: Netherlands 2-2 Japan | Sweden 5-1 Tunisia | Netherlands 5-1 Sweden | Japan 4-0 Tunisia | Japan 1-1 Sweden | Netherlands 3-1 Tunisia
Netherlands World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group F Winners
The Netherlands won Group F with a 3-1 victory over already-eliminated Tunisia on Matchday 3, finishing top on seven points with an impressive +6 goal difference and 10 goals scored across three matches. Cody Gakpo continued his outstanding tournament form. In the round of 32, the Netherlands face Morocco on June 29 in Monterrey.
Japan World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group F Runners-Up
Japan secured second place with a 1-1 draw against Sweden on Matchday 3, finishing on five points. Japan’s four-goal demolition of Tunisia on Matchday 2 proved crucial for goal difference. In the round of 32, Japan face Brazil on June 29 at NRG Stadium in Houston, a blockbuster clash between two of the tournament’s most attacking teams.
Sweden World Cup 2026 Qualification Scenario — Third Place, Awaiting Outcome
Sweden’s 1-1 draw with Japan on Matchday 3 leaves them third on four points with a level goal difference. After the highs of their 5-1 opening win over Tunisia and the lows of the 5-1 reverse against the Netherlands, Sweden finish in a solid third-place position. Four points with a 0 goal difference should be competitive enough for third-place qualification, but Sweden must wait for the remaining groups to conclude.
ALSO READ: 4 Talking Points From Sweden Squad For World Cup 2026: Dejan Kulusevski, Hugo Larsson Absence
Tunisia World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
Tunisia finished bottom of Group F with zero points and a -10 goal difference, the worst in the tournament. Three straight defeats, including a 5-1 loss to Sweden, a 4-0 loss to Japan, and a 3-1 loss to the Netherlands, confirm a miserable campaign.
World Cup 2026 Group G Final Standings (COMPLETE)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Belgium ✅ | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 6 | 2 | +4 | 5 |
| 2 | Egypt ✅ | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 5 | 3 | +2 | 5 |
| 3 | Iran | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| 4 | New Zealand ❌ | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 10 | -6 | 1 |
Results: Belgium 1-1 Egypt | Iran 2-2 New Zealand | Belgium 0-0 Iran | Egypt 3-1 New Zealand | Egypt 1-1 Iran | Belgium 5-1 New Zealand
ALSO READ: Is Romelu Lukaku In Belgium Squad For FIFA World Cup 2026?
Belgium World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group G Winners
Belgium topped Group G with a 5-1 demolition of New Zealand on Matchday 3, Romelu Lukaku scoring twice. Both Belgium and Egypt finished on five points, but Belgium’s superior goal difference (+4 vs +2) secured first place after their head-to-head ended in a draw. In the round of 32, Belgium face South Korea on July 1 at Lumen Field in Seattle.
Egypt World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group G Runners-Up
Egypt qualified for the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in their history after a dramatic 1-1 draw with Iran. Iran thought they had won it late through Shojae Khalilzadeh, but VAR overturned the goal for offside in one of the most agonising decisions of the tournament. Egypt’s five points were not enough for first place on goal difference, but they advance as runners-up. In the round of 32, Egypt face Australia on July 3 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.
Iran World Cup 2026 Qualification Scenario — Third Place, Awaiting Outcome
Iran’s three draws from three matches leave them on three points with a level goal difference. The VAR decision that disallowed Khalilzadeh’s late winner against Egypt was devastating, as a win would have sent Iran through as group winners. Iran’s third-place fate now depends on results in Groups J, K, and L. Three points with a 0 goal difference gives them a chance, but South Korea (3pts, GD -1) and Scotland (3pts, GD -3) are also competing for the final qualifying spots.
New Zealand World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
New Zealand were eliminated after a 5-1 loss to Belgium on Matchday 3. One point from three matches and a -6 goal difference ends the All Whites’ World Cup 2026.
World Cup 2026 Group H Final Standings (COMPLETE)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spain ✅ | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 5 | 0 | +5 | 7 |
| 2 | Cape Verde ✅ | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 3 |
| 3 | Uruguay ❌ | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 4 | -1 | 2 |
| 4 | Saudi Arabia ❌ | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 5 | -4 | 2 |
Results: Spain 0-0 Cape Verde | Saudi Arabia 1-1 Uruguay | Spain 4-0 Saudi Arabia | Uruguay 2-2 Cape Verde | Cape Verde 0-0 Saudi Arabia | Spain 1-0 Uruguay
Spain World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group H Winners
Spain topped Group H with a 1-0 win over Uruguay, Lamine Yamal providing the assist for Dani Olmo’s goal. Spain finished with seven points and a remarkable +5 goal difference without conceding a single goal in three matches. In the round of 32, Spain face the Group J runner-up (Algeria or Austria, decided June 27) on July 2 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
Cape Verde World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group H Runners-Up
Cape Verde’s qualification as Group H runners-up is one of the greatest stories in World Cup history. Three draws from three matches — including holding Spain to a goalless draw, rallying from 2-0 down against Uruguay, and grinding out a 0-0 against Saudi Arabia — gave the tiny island nation three points and second place. Cape Verde qualify for the knockout rounds in their first-ever World Cup appearance. In the round of 32, Cape Verde face Argentina on July 3 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Uruguay World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
Uruguay’s shock elimination was confirmed by Spain’s 1-0 victory on Matchday 3. Two points from three matches — all draws and a loss — represent a catastrophic campaign for the two-time World Cup champions. The 2-2 collapse against Cape Verde after leading 2-0 on Matchday 2 proved fatal. With only two points and a -1 goal difference, Uruguay cannot qualify as one of the eight best third-place teams. Marcelo Bielsa’s side are out.
Saudi Arabia World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
Saudi Arabia finished bottom of Group H on two points after a 0-0 draw with Cape Verde on Matchday 3. The 4-0 hammering by Spain on Matchday 2 destroyed their goal difference beyond recovery.
World Cup 2026 Group I Final Standings (COMPLETE)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | France ✅ | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 10 | 2 | +8 | 9 |
| 2 | Norway ✅ | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 8 | 7 | +1 | 6 |
| 3 | Senegal ✅ | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 8 | 6 | +2 | 3 |
| 4 | Iraq ❌ | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 12 | -11 | 0 |
Results: France 3-1 Senegal | Norway 4-1 Iraq | France 3-0 Iraq | Norway 3-2 Senegal | Norway 1-4 France | Senegal 5-0 Iraq
ALSO READ: 5 Talking Points From France Squad For World Cup 2026: Eduardo Camavinga, Kolo Muani Dropped
France World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group I Winners (Perfect Record)
France completed a perfect group stage with a devastating 4-1 demolition of Norway, Ousmane Dembélé scoring a stunning hat trick to announce himself as one of the players of the tournament. France join Mexico as the only teams with nine points from three matches. Notably, Norway manager Ståle Solbakken rested both Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard for the match with qualification already secured, effectively conceding first place. In the round of 32, France face Sweden on June 30 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
Norway World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group I Runners-Up
Norway’s 4-1 defeat to France was a deliberate strategic decision. With qualification already guaranteed, Solbakken rested his key players for the knockout rounds, prioritising freshness over group position. Norway’s first World Cup since 1998 continues into the round of 32 where they face Ivory Coast on June 30 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Haaland, who scored five goals in the first two matches, will return for the knockout stage.
Senegal World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED as Third Place
Senegal’s 5-0 thrashing of Iraq on Matchday 3 was one of the most emphatic results of the group stage and confirmed their qualification as a third-place team. After losing both opening matches, Senegal responded with a performance of stunning intensity to finish on three points with a +2 goal difference, comfortably among the eight best third-place teams. In the round of 32, Senegal face England on July 1 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Iraq World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
Iraq finished bottom of Group I with zero points and a -11 goal difference, the worst in the tournament. Three straight defeats, including the 5-0 loss to Senegal on Matchday 3, end their World Cup 2026.
World Cup 2026 Group J Final Standings (COMPLETE)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Argentina ✅ | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 8 | 1 | +7 | 9 |
| 2 | Austria ✅ | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 4 |
| 3 | Algeria ✅ | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 7 | -2 | 4 |
| 4 | Jordan ❌ | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 8 | -5 | 0 |
Results: Argentina 3-0 Algeria | Austria 3-1 Jordan | Argentina 2-0 Austria | Algeria 2-1 Jordan | Argentina 3-1 Jordan | Austria 3-3 Algeria
Argentina World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group J Winners (Perfect Record)
Argentina completed a perfect group stage with a 3-1 win over Jordan, joining France and Mexico as the only teams with nine points from three matches. Lionel Messi started on the bench but came on as a substitute. His record-breaking five goals in the first two matches — surpassing Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup record — defined the group stage. In the round of 32, Argentina face Cape Verde on July 3 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Austria World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group J Runners-Up
Austria secured second place with a dramatic 3-3 draw against Algeria on Matchday 3. With both teams level on four points after the match, Austria’s superior goal difference (0 vs -2) settled second place. In the round of 32, Austria face Spain on July 2 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
Algeria World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED as Third Place
Algeria’s 3-3 draw with Austria was enough to confirm third place on four points. Despite a -2 goal difference, four points comfortably placed Algeria among the eight best third-place teams. In the round of 32, Algeria face Switzerland on July 2 at BC Place in Vancouver.
Jordan World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
Jordan finished bottom of Group J with zero points from three matches. The 3-1 loss to Argentina on Matchday 3 confirmed a winless campaign.
World Cup 2026 Group K Final Standings (COMPLETE)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Colombia ✅ | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 1 | +3 | 7 |
| 2 | Portugal ✅ | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 6 | 1 | +5 | 5 |
| 3 | DR Congo ✅ | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 3 | +1 | 4 |
| 4 | Uzbekistan ❌ | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 2 | 11 | -9 | 0 |
Results: Portugal 1-1 DR Congo | Colombia 3-1 Uzbekistan | Portugal 5-0 Uzbekistan | Colombia 1-0 DR Congo | Colombia 0-0 Portugal | DR Congo 3-1 Uzbekistan
Colombia World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group K Winners
Colombia topped Group K with a goalless draw against Portugal on Matchday 3, finishing on seven points. Colombia’s defensive solidity — conceding just one goal in three matches — has been one of the stories of the group stage. In the round of 32, Colombia face Ghana on July 3 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.
Portugal World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group K Runners-Up
Portugal secured second place with their 0-0 draw against Colombia. Cristiano Ronaldo played every minute of the group stage, and his two goals against Uzbekistan made him the first player in history to score at six different World Cups. The draw with Colombia means a potential Ronaldo vs Messi quarter-final is off the table unless both reach the final. In the round of 32, Portugal face Croatia on July 2 at BMO Field in Toronto, setting up a Ronaldo vs Modrić encounter almost 18 years after they first faced off.
DR Congo World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED as Third Place
DR Congo produced one of the most emotional moments of the tournament, rallying from 1-0 down against Uzbekistan to win 3-1 with goals from Yoane Wissa (including a stoppage-time strike) and Fiston Mayele. The victory took DR Congo to four points and confirmed their place in the round of 32 for the first time in their history. In the knockout rounds, DR Congo face England on July 1 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Uzbekistan World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
Uzbekistan finished bottom of Group K with zero points and a -9 goal difference. The 3-1 loss to DR Congo on Matchday 3, after leading through Eldor Shomurodov’s opener, was a cruel end to their debut World Cup.
World Cup 2026 Group L Final Standings (COMPLETE)
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | England ✅ | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 6 | 2 | +4 | 7 |
| 2 | Croatia ✅ | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 5 | 0 | 6 |
| 3 | Ghana ✅ | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 4 |
| 4 | Panama ❌ | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 4 | -4 | 0 |
Results: England 4-2 Croatia | Ghana 1-0 Panama | England 0-0 Ghana | Croatia 1-0 Panama | England 2-0 Panama | Croatia 2-1 Ghana
ALSO READ: Will Harry Maguire, Reece James and John Stones Make England Squad For World Cup 2026?
England World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group L Winners
England topped Group L with a 2-0 win over Panama on Matchday 3. Jude Bellingham opened the scoring on 62 minutes and Harry Kane added a second to move ahead of Gary Lineker with his 11th World Cup goal. Thomas Tuchel’s side finished on seven points. In the round of 32, England face DR Congo on July 1 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Croatia World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED, Group L Runners-Up
Croatia secured second place with a 2-1 win over Ghana, Petar Sucic and Nikola Vlasic scoring in what could be Luka Modrić’s final World Cup group stage. Croatia’s six points from three matches exceeded expectations after the 4-2 opening loss to England. In the round of 32, Croatia face Portugal on July 2 at BMO Field in Toronto, reuniting Modrić with his former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ghana World Cup 2026 Qualification — QUALIFIED as Third Place
Ghana’s 2-1 loss to Croatia on Matchday 3 dropped them to third, but four points with a level goal difference was enough to qualify as one of the eight best third-place teams. In the round of 32, Ghana face Colombia on July 3 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.
Panama World Cup 2026 — ELIMINATED
Panama finished bottom of Group L with zero points and zero goals scored across three matches, conceding four. The 2-0 loss to England on Matchday 3 confirmed their exit.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Third-Place Standings: Final Table
The eight best third-place teams have been confirmed. All seven teams that finished on four points qualified, along with Senegal on three points with the best goal difference among the remaining contenders.
| Rank | Team (Group) | Pts | GD | GS | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DR Congo (K) | 4 | +1 | 4 | ✅ QUALIFIED |
| 2 | Sweden (F) | 4 | 0 | 7 | ✅ QUALIFIED |
| 3 | Ghana (L) | 4 | 0 | 2 | ✅ QUALIFIED |
| 4 | Ecuador (E) | 4 | 0 | 2 | ✅ QUALIFIED |
| 5 | Bosnia and Herzegovina (B) | 4 | -1 | 5 | ✅ QUALIFIED |
| 6 | Algeria (J) | 4 | -2 | 5 | ✅ QUALIFIED |
| 7 | Paraguay (D) | 4 | -2 | 2 | ✅ QUALIFIED |
| 8 | Senegal (I) | 3 | +2 | 8 | ✅ QUALIFIED |
| — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 9 | Iran (G) | 3 | 0 | 3 | ❌ ELIMINATED |
| 10 | South Korea (A) | 3 | -1 | 2 | ❌ ELIMINATED |
| 11 | Scotland (C) | 3 | -3 | 1 | ❌ ELIMINATED |
| 12 | Uruguay (H) | 2 | -1 | 3 | ❌ ELIMINATED |
Iran’s elimination was the cruellest outcome of the group stage. Their disallowed VAR goal against Egypt in Group G — a late winner ruled out for offside — was the difference between qualification and going home.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32: Full Bracket
The group stage is over. Here is the complete round of 32 bracket:
- June 28: South Africa vs Canada — SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
- June 29: Brazil vs Japan — NRG Stadium, Houston | Germany vs Paraguay — Gillette Stadium, Foxborough
- June 30: Netherlands vs Morocco — Estadio BBVA, Monterrey | Ivory Coast vs Norway — AT&T Stadium, Arlington | France vs Sweden — MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford
- July 1: Mexico vs Ecuador — Estadio Azteca, Mexico City | England vs DR Congo — Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta | Belgium vs Senegal — Lumen Field, Seattle | USA vs Bosnia and Herzegovina — Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara
- July 2: Spain vs Austria — SoFi Stadium, Inglewood | Switzerland vs Algeria — BC Place, Vancouver | Portugal vs Croatia — BMO Field, Toronto
- July 3: Australia vs Egypt — AT&T Stadium, Arlington | Argentina vs Cape Verde — Hard Rock Stadium, Miami | Colombia vs Ghana — Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
For full round of 32 fixtures, check our hub.
What Happens After the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group Stage?
The round of 32 runs from June 28 to July 3 across venues in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. From the round of 16 onwards, every match is played in the United States. The Quarter-Finals are on July 8-9, Semi-Finals on July 12-13, and the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final takes place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.
The expanded 48-team format means this tournament features 104 total matches, the most in World Cup history. The introduction of the round of 32 and the eight best third-place teams qualifying makes the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification picture far more complex than any previous tournament, but also means that more nations than ever before will experience knockout football on the world’s biggest stage.
FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 8 fixtures, schedule, and quarter-final bracket
ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026 Squads: All Teams, Players and Announcement Dates
