World Cup: 7 teams qualify for the Round of 32, 5 teams eliminated

The competition for a spot in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up as the group phase approaches its end, with six teams already confirmed and five others already out of the tournament.

The expanded format, which for the first time includes 48 teams, has seen clubs and national sides compete across 12 groups of four. Co‑hosts Mexico, the United States, and Canada were all given top‑seed status during the draw.

Under the tournament rules, the 12 group winners and the 12 runners‑up automatically advance to the Round of 32. They are joined by the eight best third‑placed teams, ranked by points and goal difference, leaving 16 nations eliminated after the group stage.
Several teams have already secured their places in the knockout rounds after winning their first two matches.

Teams Through to the Knockout Stage

Mexico became the first team from Group A to clinch qualification.

In Group D, co‑host United States also booked their place in the next round after consecutive victories.

European powerhouse Germany advanced from Group E after maintaining a perfect start to their campaign.

Group I produced two qualified teams, with France and Norway both securing enough points to guarantee progression.

Defending champions Argentina have also reached the knockout rounds from Group J.

Meanwhile, Colombia became the latest nation to confirm qualification from Group K.

Teams Eliminated from the Tournament

At the other end of the standings, several nations have seen their World Cup dreams end after defeats in their opening two matches.

Haiti became the first team eliminated from Group C.
Turkey were knocked out from Group D, while Tunisia exited the competition from Group F.
In Group J, Jordan were unable to keep their qualification hopes alive and have been eliminated.
Panama also bowed out of the tournament from Group L.

With the final round of group‑stage fixtures still to be played, numerous teams remain in contention for the remaining places in the Round of 32 as the battle for World Cup glory continues.

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