2026 World Cup group stage ends; 32 teams advance to Round of 32

The group stage of the expanded 2026 World Cup has concluded, determining the 32 teams that will compete in the newly introduced Round of 32 knockout phase. This edition marks a significant expansion, incorporating 16 additional nations compared to the last seven World Cups, leading to a more diverse field of competitors.

The first round of direct elimination matches is scheduled to take place between June 29 and July 3. The 16 victorious teams from these encounters will then progress to the Round of 16, continuing their quest for the coveted trophy. The tournament's comprehensive details can be followed on canchallena.com.

Several nations secured top spots in their respective groups, including Mexico and South Africa in Group A, Switzerland and Canada in Group B, and Brazil and Morocco in Group C. Argentina, like Mexico, also finished the group stage with a perfect record, topping Group J. Other group winners included Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, France, Colombia, and England. The tournament also saw the emergence of debutants like Cape Verde, who advanced as group runners-up.