The knockout bracket for the FIFA World Cup 2026 is beginning to take shape, with the expanded tournament’s round of 32 set to commence on June 28. This stage, a new addition reflecting the tournament's expansion to 48 teams, marks the beginning of the elimination phase, culminating in the final on July 19.

The qualification criteria for the round of 32 involve the top two teams from each of the 12 groups advancing, alongside the eight best third-placed teams. This structure introduces a new dynamic for teams vying for progression, with multiple pathways to the knockout stages.

Germany has successfully secured its place in the round of 32 following a victory over Ivory Coast. Both teams, having navigated the group stage successfully, will now compete in the next phase of the tournament. The specific details of other qualifying teams and their final group standings are still emerging as the group stage nears its conclusion.

The implications of the expanded format are significant, potentially allowing more teams to reach the knockout rounds than in previous editions. This change could lead to more unpredictable matchups and a broader representation of confederations in the latter stages of the competition.

For the first time in a World Cup, FIFA is implementing head-to-head records as the primary tiebreaker for teams level on points, superseding goal difference. This change aims to reward direct results between tied teams. If teams remain inseparable after considering head-to-head results, further tiebreakers include overall goal difference, goals scored, and team conduct scores based on disciplinary records.

Teams such as Haiti and Turkiye have been eliminated from contention. Their inability to surpass third-placed teams in their respective groups, compounded by losses to those teams, has sealed their exit from the tournament. Their early departure underscores the competitive nature of the group stages.

The tournament's schedule is structured with the group stage running from June 11 to June 27, followed by the round of 32 from June 28 to July 3. Subsequent rounds include the round of 16 (July 4-7), quarterfinals (July 9-11), semifinals (July 14-15), with the bronze medal match on July 18 and the final on July 19.

As the group stage concludes, the full picture of the 32 teams advancing to the knockout phase will become clear. The new format promises a more extensive and potentially more diverse knockout stage than ever before in World Cup history.