As the 2026 FIFA World Cup enters its third week of group-stage action, the race for places in the knockout rounds is intensifying, with several teams already booking their places in the newly introduced round of 32.
In total, 19 teams have secured progression to the knockout phase. This stage has been added as part of the tournament’s expansion to 48 teams, leaving 13 spots still open for qualification.
One of the significant format changes in this edition is the determination of group standings. Instead of goal difference, head-to-head results now decide the rankings. This adjustment has allowed some countries to clinch top spot in their groups after just two matches.
As the final evening of group-stage fixtures approaches, here’s a look at every team that has already advanced to the round of 32, along with those still vying for qualification.
Scotland remain mathematically in contention but will require three separate results to go in their favour tonight to progress.
Among the most surprising outcomes of the group stage is Cape Verde’s impressive achievement in finishing second in their group, earning a knockout berth for the first time in their history. South Africa have also advanced beyond the group stage of a World Cup for the very first time. On the other hand, Uruguay’s early elimination stands out as one of the biggest upsets of the tournament so far.
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