Which Teams Have Secured Spots in the 2026 World Cup Knockout Stage?

Teams Moving Forward in the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup has entered its second week, with many teams already playing their second group matches. Some have confirmed their places in the knockout rounds, which now start with a Round of 32 due to the tournament's expansion to 48 teams.

New Knockout Format and Qualification Criteria

The expansion means that not only the top two teams from each group advance but also the eight best third-placed teams join the knockout phase. This change adds extra excitement as several third-place teams still have a chance to move on.

Mexico Leads Group A

Mexico was the first to secure a spot in the Round of 32 after a 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday night. They started strong with a 2-0 win against South Africa. Earlier that day, South Africa and Czechia drew 1-1, making Mexico’s win critical for topping Group A.

The match saw a goalless first half until Luis Romo capitalized on a mistake by South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, who accidentally collided with a teammate and lost control of the ball inside the box. Romo quickly took advantage to score.

In the final moments, Mexican goalkeeper Raúl Rangel became the hero, pulling off two key saves to keep South Korea from equalizing.

El Tri will face a third-place team from one of the groups C, E, F, H, or I. Their next game is set to take place in Mexico City, giving them home advantage in the Round of 32.