In the 2026 World Cup, 32 of 48 teams advance from the group stage to the knockout round. The top 2 teams from each of the 12 groups qualify automatically, plus the 8 best third-placed teams across all groups. From the Round of 32 onward, it is single elimination — lose and you go home.

Each group has 4 teams. Every team plays 3 matches. Teams earn 3 points for a win, 1 for a draw, and 0 for a loss. The top 2 in each group go through. Then the 8 best third-placed teams (out of 12) also advance.

All 12 third-placed teams are ranked against each other using: points, then goal difference, then goals scored, then fair play, then drawing of lots. The top 8 advance to the Round of 32.

Once 32 teams are set, the tournament becomes single elimination. If a knockout match is tied after 90 minutes, it goes to 30 minutes of extra time. Still tied? Penalty shootout. There are no second chances — every match is win or go home.

Knockout rounds: Round of 32, Round of 16, Quarter-finals, Semi-finals, Third Place Play-off, Final.

The group stage runs June 11 – June 26, 2026. The knockout stage begins June 28 with the Round of 32, and the Final is July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.