World Cup 2026 Knockout Round: Teams Secured Their Spots
Who Has Advanced to the Knockout Stage in the 2026 World Cup?
The 2026 World Cup is now well into its second week, with some teams already playing their second group matches. A few squads have confirmed their progression to the knockout phase.
This edition has expanded to 48 teams, so the knockout round starts with 32 teams instead of the usual 16. That means not only do the top two teams from each group advance, but the eight best third-place teams also move on. We are following the third-place rankings closely for those still hoping to qualify despite their position.
Mexico Secures First Spot in Round of 32
Mexico was the first team to clinch a place in the Round of 32 after beating South Korea 1-0 on Thursday night. They had started strong with a 2-0 win over South Africa. Earlier that day, South Africa and Czechia drew 1-1, which set the stage for Mexico’s victory to seal the top spot in Group A.
The game remained scoreless until the second half when Luis Romo capitalized on a mistake by South Korea's goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, who collided with a teammate and lost possession in the box. Romo seized the moment to give Mexico the lead.
In the final minutes, Mexico’s goalkeeper Raúl Rangel made crucial saves to stop South Korea from equalizing, preserving the 1-0 win.
With this victory, El Tri not only topped Group A but will also face one of the third-place teams from Groups C, E, F, H, or I in the Round of 32. The match will take place in Mexico City, allowing Mexico to remain on home soil for the next round.
