The group stage of the 2026 World Cup has officially concluded, with 16 of the 48 qualified teams exiting the tournament before the knockout phase. The top two teams from each of the 12 groups advanced to the newly-created round of 32, along with the eight best third-place finishers.
Notable Eliminations
Among the early departures are Scotland, Uruguay, South Korea, and debutants Haiti, Jordan, Curacao, and Uzbekistan. However, all major favorites, including England, secured their spots in the knockout rounds. England clinched top spot in Group L with a 2-0 win over Panama.
Haiti, from Group C, were the first team officially eliminated. They were followed by Turkey in Group D, who failed to capitalize on their chances, and Tunisia in Group F, who sacked coach Sabri Lamouchi after one game and appointed Herve Renard but still couldn't advance.
Debutants and Surprises
Jordan's World Cup debut ended after three losses in Group J. Curacao, also first-timers, managed a point in Group E but finished bottom. Uzbekistan, making their debut, finished last in a tough Group K.
Panama's exit in Group L was confirmed before their loss to England. The Czech Republic finished bottom of Group A. South Korea earned three points but finished third, not enough to advance. Qatar, in Group B, saw their hopes dashed after a 3-1 loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina, despite a late equalizer against Switzerland earlier.
Biggest Casualties
Iraq's campaign ended with a 5-0 thrashing by Senegal in Group I. Uruguay, arguably the biggest team eliminated, lost 1-0 to Spain and finished behind surprise package Cape Verde. Saudi Arabia finished bottom of Group H. Iran missed out on being one of the top eight third-place teams, while New Zealand also exited. Steve Clarke resigned as Scotland's head coach after their chances of advancing from third place in Group C ended.
