The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage is nearing its conclusion, with Matchday Three matches underway as teams battle for places in the tournament’s expanded knockout rounds.
While several nations have already secured qualification for the Round of 32, others remain in contention as the final group fixtures, scheduled to end on Saturday, June 27, determine the remaining qualifiers.
Mexico became the first nation to book a place in the knockout stage after edging South Korea 1-0 in its second group match before sealing top spot in Group A with a commanding 3-0 victory over Czechia. El Tri finished the group phase with a perfect nine points from three matches.
Co-hosts the United States and Canada also progressed to the Round of 32, although Canada advanced as Group B runners-up following a 2-1 defeat to Switzerland. The United States, managed by Mauricio Pochettino, held on to first place in its group despite suffering a dramatic 3-2 loss to Türkiye in its final group game.
With more of the tournament’s heavyweights now through to the knockout stage, the Round of 32 bracket is beginning to take shape.
