World Cup Groups
Fixtures
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How the World Cup 2026 group stage works
The 2026 World Cup is the biggest in history. 48 nations will compete, split across 12 groups of four teams. Every team plays three group stage matches, and the top two in each group progress automatically to the round of 32. Eight of the best third-placed sides also advance, so there's plenty to play for even if a team stumbles early.
How group stage points work
Three points for a win, one for a draw, none for a defeat. If teams finish level on points, goal difference separates them first, then goals scored, then head-to-head record. From the round of 32, it's straight knockout football all the way to the final at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, on 19 July 2026.
The groups to watch
Group C has Brazil, Morocco and Scotland fighting for two spots. Group H puts Spain up against Saudi Arabia and Uruguay. Group L is England's group, with Croatia, Ghana and Panama standing between them and the last 32. Twelve groups, 48 teams, one winner.