World Cup Knockout Stage Set: Complete Round Of 32 Line-Up Revealed

The group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a thrilling conclusion on Saturday night and Sunday morning, delivering dramatic late moments that finalized the lineup for the tournament’s historic first-ever Round of 32. One of the biggest talking points came during Algeria’s decisive clash against Austria, where a dramatic stoppage-time twist altered the fate of both teams. Algeria appeared to have secured victory and a place in the knockout rounds after Riyad Mahrez found the net in the 94th minute. However, Austria responded in extraordinary fashion as substitute Saša Kalajdžić scored with virtually the final touch of the match, rescuing a crucial draw that kept his country’s World Cup campaign alive.

According to tournament reports, Mexico became the first nation to secure qualification for the knockout phase after edging South Korea 1-0 in their second group match. El Tri rounded off an impressive group-stage performance with a commanding 3-0 victory over Czechia, finishing at the summit of Group A with a maximum nine points.

Fellow tournament co-hosts the United States and Canada also booked their places in the Round of 32. Canada advanced as group runners-up despite suffering a narrow 2-1 defeat to Switzerland, while the United States maintained top spot in their group even after falling 3-2 to Türkiye in their final fixture.

The knockout stage promises several blockbuster encounters as Germany prepare to face Paraguay, while tournament favourites France will battle Sweden. South Africa have been paired with Canada, the Netherlands will take on Morocco, Portugal will meet Croatia, and Spain are set for a showdown with Austria. Elsewhere, the United States will face Bosnia and Herzegovina, Belgium will play Senegal, Brazil will clash with Japan, Ivory Coast will take on Norway, Mexico will battle Ecuador, England will face DR Congo, Argentina will meet Cape Verde, Australia will play Egypt, Switzerland will square off against Algeria, and Colombia will take on Ghana in what promises to be a thrilling Round of 32.