World Cup 2026 Round of 32 Set

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has finalized its round of 32 knockout bracket following the conclusion of 72 group-stage matches. Thirty-two nations, comprising the top two finishers from each of the 12 groups and the eight highest-ranked third-place teams, have advanced to the single-elimination phase beginning June 28.

The tournament expansion to 48 teams has introduced a diverse field, with Cape Verde emerging as the smallest nation to qualify for the knockout stage. The schedule spans multiple host cities across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with the opening knockout fixture featuring South Africa against Canada at Los Angeles Stadium.

Key matchups in the opening round include Brazil facing Japan in Houston, France meeting Sweden in New Jersey, and England playing the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Atlanta. The knockout phase will proceed through July 3, narrowing the field to 16 teams as the tournament progresses toward the final.