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The Economic Times
The Economic Times
National

FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32: Qualified teams, eliminated nations and knockout stage picture explained

The FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage is nearing its conclusion, and the Round of 32 lineup is gradually taking shape. With the group phase ending on June 27, several nations have already secured their places in the knockout rounds, while others have seen their World Cup dreams come to an end.

A total of 32 teams will compete in the knockout stage. Twenty-four teams qualify directly through their group standings, while the eight best third-placed teams also advance.

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