World Cup 2026: The Round of 32 Begins - a Knockout First in History

A first in history: a knockout of 32 teams

The 2026 World Cup has entered a stage it never had before. With a record 48 nations, the tournament gets a Round of 32 for the first time - a knockout bracket that started on 28 June and runs until 3 July. Six days, sixteen matches, and one rule that leaves no room for error: win or you are out.

Win or you are out

No more group-stage calculations. A draw after 90 minutes goes to extra time, then penalties. The twelve group winners, twelve runners-up and eight best third-placed teams now play for one thing only - survival. Brazil, Argentina, Spain, England and France all start from zero, just like everyone else.

The Balkans are in

For the Balkan viewer there are two more reasons not to look away. Croatia and Bosnia are among the 32, and both are playing for a step further. The full Round of 32 schedule, along with live scores, can be followed on our World Cup 2026 page.