The group stage of the expanded 48-team FIFA 2026 World Cup has concluded, with the 32 teams that will compete in the knockout stage now confirmed.
The final round of group matches produced dramatic moments and surprise results as the Round of 32 lineup was completed.
The 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is the first edition to feature 48 teams. Under the new format, the top two teams from each of the 12 groups automatically qualify for the knockout stage, while the eight best third-placed teams also advance.
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Only 32 nations remain in contention for football’s biggest prize after an action-packed group phase that saw several debutants impress and traditional heavyweights secure their places in the knockout rounds.
