The 2026 World Cup knockout stage starts on June 28, 2026 with the round of 32 and runs through July 19, 2026 , when the final is played.

Knockout schedule

  • Round of 32: June 28 to July 3.
  • Round of 16: July 4 to July 7.
  • Quarterfinals: July 9 to July 11.
  • Semifinals: July 14 to July 15.
  • Third-place match: July 18.
  • Final: July 19.

What that means

The knockout phase begins right after the group stage ends, and only 32 teams advance into the first elimination round. The first knockout match day is on Sunday, June 28.