The top two teams from each group qualify for the knockout stage, and in the 2026 World Cup format, the eight best third-placed teams also advance, making a 32-team round of 32.

Quick Scoop

  • From each group: 2 teams qualify automatically.
  • Extra qualifiers: 8 third-place teams also go through in this format.
  • Total in knockouts: 32 teams reach the round of 32.

Simple example

If a group has four teams, the first- and second-place finishers move on right away. Then, depending on the tournament standings, some third-place teams can still make it through on points and goal difference.

TL;DR

Two teams qualify from each group, plus the eight best third-placed teams in the 2026 World Cup format.