The FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage has entered its final phase, with most groups now decided and the Round of 32 lineup close to being finalised. As the last round of fixtures wraps up, 32 teams will move into the knockout stage, where every match will be played in a straight elimination format.The tournament follows a structure where 24 teams qualify directly from their group standings, while eight additional teams progress as the best third-placed sides across all groups. Rankings are decided on points first, followed by goal difference and goals scored if teams are tied.Group leaders and confirmed qualifiersSeveral teams have already secured strong positions or qualification spots, including:MexicoSwitzerlandBrazilMoroccoUnited StatesGermanyNetherlandsBelgiumSpainFranceArgentinaColombiaEnglandNorwayJapanCôte d’IvoireSouth AfricaMexico stood out with a perfect group-stage run, while Spain and France remained unbeaten through their groups. Brazil and Argentina also continued their strong World Cup form.Teams still fighting for direct qualificationSome second-place positions are still open in a few groups:CanadaBosnia and HerzegovinaAustraliaParaguayTürkiyeSwedenEcuadorEgyptIranCroatiaGhanaAustriaAlgeriaSenegalUruguayThese teams remain in contention depending on final group-stage results.Third-place qualification raceThe battle for the eight best third-placed spots remains tight, with the following teams in contention:SwedenEcuadorBosnia and HerzegovinaParaguaySenegalIranCroatiaKorea RepublicAlgeriaScotlandUruguayCongo DRSmall margins in points and goal difference are expected to decide who progresses.Teams eliminatedSeveral teams have already been knocked out of the tournament, including:CzechiaQatarHaitiCuraçaoTunisiaSaudi ArabiaNew ZealandIraqPanamaJordanUzbekistanWhat comes nextThe group stage will conclude on June 27, after which the final Round of 32 lineup will be confirmed. The knockout stage begins on June 29, where every match will be decisive and teams will have no room for error.