Explore the latest developments concerning World Cup 2026:.
With the group stage hurtling towards its end we look at who needs what to make the knockout phase
Teams level on points are separated, in order, by head-to-head points; head-to-head goal difference; head-to-head goals scored; overall goal difference; overall goals scored; team conduct score; Fifa ranking.
The top two in each group qualify along with the eight best third-placed sides.
Argentina, France, Germany, Mexico, Norway, USA, Colombia, Canada, Switzerland, Brazil, Morocco, South Africa, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Côte d’Ivoire and Ecuador.
The eight best third-placed teams qualify for the last 32 based on a ranking that, in order, takes into account: points, goal difference (GD), goals scored, fair-play status (conduct) and Fifa ranking. Five points will definitely be enough to qualify, given results so far.
The Socceroos are in with a great chance of qualifying for the next round. (Getty Images: MB Media)
As the World Cup group phase reaches its climax, attention is swiftly turning to the knockout phase of the tournament.
But first things first, how are teams ranked, and how do they progress to the next round?
Of the 48 teams at this World Cup, just 16 will go home at the end of the group phase, leaving 32 teams to contest the first knockout round.
If you think that reduces the jeopardy teams face for a bad performance in the group round, you're absolutely right.
100% Merino Wool Sweater Women's Plus Size 5XL Half-Neck Pullover Loose Knit Bottoming Shirt Long Sleeves Threaded Cashmere Tops
Click for more info. »
The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage format, criteria and rules for qualification. Find out who’s in and who’s out.
The knockout bracket in the FIFA World Cup 2026 is starting to take shape.
It begins with the round of 32, which runs from June 28 to July 3.
What is the format and criteria for qualification, and which teams have progressed or been eliminated?
The top two teams in each of the 12 groups, along with the eight best third-place finishers, advance to knockouts.
The knockout phase begins with the round of 32, introduced for the first time at a World Cup after the expansion of the tournament from 32 to 48 teams.
For more detailed information, explore updates concerning World Cup 2026:.
For more news…
