Before we look forward, we should look back at a group stage that had it all. Managerial sackings, stunning goals, major upsets, and the biggest stars stepping into the spotlight.

With the last round of group matches underway, every result carries enormous significance. | Football News

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The final games of the 2026 World Cup group stage have provided thrilling moments, and the knockout stage matches are rapidly coming into focus.

From Cape Verde to Uruguay — and from Messi to Ronaldo — the 2026 World Cup has had its share of surprises and disappointments.

All you need to know about the World Cup knockouts, predictions and who has impressed so far

All of the pre-tournament favorites (France, Spain, England, Argentina) made it through, and a few surprise sides are through, too. | Football News

The FIFA World Cup knockout stage has begun with 32 teams progressing and 16 eliminated from the 2026 edition.

The round of 32 will include 13 teams from Europe, nine from Africa, five from South America, and two from Asia

Very few nations have managed to come through a brilliant if bruising group stage campaign entirely unscathed.

Before we look forward, we should look back at a group stage that had it all. Managerial sackings, stunning goals, major upsets, and the biggest stars stepping into the spotlight.

The 2026 World Cup group stage produced 215 goals across 72 matches. Here are the best teams, players, and moments before the knockout rounds.

The Athletic's data writers break down the key findings now the tournament's first phase has drawn to a close

Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo have all gotten on the scoring sheet in the FIFA World Cup 2026. | Football News

We could see some classic ties in the knockout stages now the last-32 is confirmed. Who could play who in our ideal lineup?

With the World Cup group phase completed, the stage is set for the knockout rounds, where the game's biggest players and nations will be desperate to make an impact

Just 32 teams remain in the 2026 World Cup.