World Cup 2026 Hub

Knockout Bracket

The full knockout stage from the Round of 32 through to the Final. 32 teams compete in single-elimination matches - the bracket updates automatically as results come in.

How to read the bracket

Before teams qualify

Winner Group A = group winner
Runner-up Group A = group 2nd
Winner R32-1 = winner of a Round of 32 tie

As results come in

Confirmed teams appear with their crest
The advancing team is shown in bold
FT (pens) = decided on penalties

Tournament format

48 teams in 12 groups of 4
Top 2 per group advance (24 teams)
8 best 3rd-place teams also advance
32 teams enter the knockout stage

How the World Cup 2026 Knockout Stage Works

The 2026 football World Cup introduces a new expanded knockout format. After the group stage, the top 2 teams from each of the 12 groups advance automatically (24 teams), joined by the 8 best third-place finishers to make 32 teams. From the Round of 32 onward, it is single-elimination. The bracket culminates in the Final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, 2026.