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Al Jazeera2 min read

Which teams have qualified for the World Cup 2026 knockouts, round of 32?

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature an expanded 48-team format, with the top two teams from each of the 12 groups advancing directly to the knockout stage, alongside the four best third-placed teams. This structure means the Round of 32 will comprise 32 teams, a significant increase from the previous 16-team knockout bracket. Qualification for this stage is determined by points accumulated in the group phase, with tie-breaking criteria including goal difference, goals scored, head-to-head results, and fair play points if necessary. The tournament is scheduled to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time three nations will share hosting duties. The final match is slated to be held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The group stage matches will commence on June 11, 2026, with the opening game at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The knockout rounds will begin on June 27, 2026, culminating in the final on July 19, 2026. As of the current reporting period, no teams have officially qualified for the Round of 32, as the qualification process is ongoing and group stage matches have not yet commenced.

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