The battle for places in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has intensified, with seven teams already through to the knockout stage and five countries eliminated from the tournament.
The 2026 edition is the first World Cup to feature 48 teams, divided into 12 groups of four teams each.
Under the new format, the top two teams from each group will qualify automatically for the Round of 32, while the eight best third-placed teams will also advance.
Sixteen teams will be eliminated at the end of the group stage.
Teams Through To Round Of 32
Mexico became the first team from Group A to secure qualification for the knockout stage.
Co-hosts United States also booked their place from Group D after winning their opening two matches.
Germany advanced from Group E following a perfect start to their campaign.
Group I has produced two qualified teams, with France and Norway both confirming their places in the Round of 32.
Defending champions Argentina have also progressed from Group J, while Colombia became the latest team to qualify from Group K.
The seven teams that have qualified are:
Mexico — Group A
United States — Group D
Germany — Group E
France — Group I
Norway — Group I
Argentina — Group J
Colombia — Group K
Teams Eliminated
Five teams have so far been knocked out of the competition after failing to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Haiti have been eliminated from Group C, while Turkey are out from Group D.
Tunisia have also exited the tournament from Group F.
Jordan have been knocked out from Group J, while Panama have bowed out from Group L.
The five eliminated teams are:
Haiti — Group C
Turkey — Group D
Tunisia — Group F
Jordan — Group J
Panama — Group L
Race For Knockout Places Continues
With the final round of group-stage matches still to be played, several teams remain in contention for the remaining qualification spots.
The race for automatic qualification and the battle to finish among the best third-placed teams are expected to shape the final phase of the group stage.
