2026 World Cup Enters Knockout Stage with New Format

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has introduced a new Round of 32 format, expanding the tournament to 48 teams for the first time in its 96-year history. This format allows the top two teams from twelve groups, along with the best eight third-place teams, to advance to the knockout stage.

Defending champions Argentina, co-hosts the United States, Mexico, and Brazil, among others, have qualified for this phase. The tournament's knockout matches will commence on June 28, with Canada defeating South Africa 1-0 in the first match held at Sofi Stadium in Los Angeles.

A total of fifteen fixtures remain before the Round of 16 begins on July 3, followed by matches on July 4.