The knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to begin on June 28, with 28 teams having qualified so far. The round of 32 will run until July 3, with only six spots still available for teams looking to advance.
The tournament format allows the top two teams from each of the 12 groups, along with the eight best third-place finishers, to progress to the knockout rounds. This marks the introduction of the round of 32 following the tournament's expansion from 32 to 48 teams, a significant change in the World Cup structure.
The tournament schedule includes the group stage from June 11 to June 27, followed by the round of 32, round of 16 from July 4-7, quarterfinals from July 9-11, semifinals on July 14-15, and the final on July 19.
The knockout phase will see teams compete in a single-elimination format, heightening the stakes as they vie for the championship.
FIFA has implemented new tie-breaker rules for this tournament. For the first time, head-to-head records will be used instead of goal difference as the primary criterion for teams level on points. This change aims to provide a clearer method for determining rankings in tightly contested groups.
Among the teams that have secured their places are the United States, Germany, Argentina, and France. Argentina's Lionel Messi made headlines by becoming the World Cup's all-time leading scorer with 18 goals after scoring twice against Austria, solidifying his legacy in the tournament's history.
Brazil and Morocco also advanced, with Brazil topping Group C after a decisive 3-0 win over Scotland. South Africa made history by qualifying for the knockout stage for the first time, achieving this milestone with a 1-0 victory against South Korea.
Other teams like Ecuador and Ivory Coast progressed to the next round, while Tunisia and Jordan faced elimination after disappointing performances. The knockout phase promises to be competitive as teams strive for glory in one of the world's most prestigious sporting events.
