The race for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is gathering pace, with six countries already through to the Round of 32 after just two group matches, while four others have seen their campaigns come to an early end.
Co-hosts Mexico and the United States are among the first teams to secure qualification, alongside Germany, Argentina, France and Norway. Mexico became the first side to book their place in the knockout rounds after consecutive victories over South Africa and Korea Republic in Group A.
The North Americans sealed top spot in the group and will face a third-placed team from Groups C, E, F, H or I in Mexico City on June 30.
The United States quickly followed suit in Group D, beating Paraguay and Australia to guarantee progression. Mauricio Pochettino’s men also wrapped up first place and will meet a third-placed side from Groups B, E, F, I or J in the San Francisco Bay Area on July 1.
Germany became the first European nation to qualify after recording back-to-back wins against Curaçao and Côte d’Ivoire in Group E. Julian Nagelsmann’s side later confirmed their status as group winners and are set to face a third-placed team from Groups A, B, C, D or F in Boston on June 29.
Defending champions Argentina also progressed with a game to spare, inspired by five goals from captain Lionel Messi in victories over Algeria and Austria. Argentina finished top of Group J and will take on the runners-up from Group H in Miami on July 3.
France secured qualification from Group I after defeating Senegal and Iraq, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice in each match. Norway joined them in the knockout stage after victories over Iraq and Senegal.
At the other end of the standings, Haiti, Tunisia, Türkiye and Jordan have all been eliminated after suffering defeats in their opening two matches. Haiti lost to Scotland and Brazil, Tunisia fell to Sweden and Japan, Türkiye were beaten by Australia and Paraguay, while Jordan’s hopes ended after losses to Austria and Algeria.
Favor As Higher Power?
(The hidden truth)
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