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World Cup 2026: Knockout Rounds Begin!
6 Jul
Summary
- The 2026 World Cup knockout stage begins June 28.
- The final match is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium.
- 32 of 48 teams advance to the knockout stage.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is now entering its decisive knockout phase, featuring 16 advancing teams after a captivating group stage. This expanded tournament's knockout matches commence on June 28 with the Round of 32, continuing through July 3.
The Round of 16 is scheduled from July 4-7, followed by the quarterfinals on July 9-11, and the semifinals on July 14-15. The tournament's grand finale will take place on Sunday, July 19, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Qualification for the knockout stage includes the top two teams from each group, alongside the eight best third-place finishers. The bracket structure is predetermined, pairing group winners against runners-up or third-place teams, with precautions to avoid rematches until later stages.
