# World Cup 2026 Group Stage Concludes: Round of 32 Set with Messi, Kane Making History
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The group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially wrapped up, and the tournament is now heading into the knockout rounds across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With 32 teams still alive, the Round of 32 promises high-stakes drama from coast to coast.
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## Final Group Stage Results
The last matchday delivered plenty of fireworks. Here’s what went down:
| Match | Score | Key Takeaway |
|——-|——-|————-|
| Argentina vs Jordan | **3-1** | Messi scored off the bench — his 6th goal of the tournament |
| England vs Panama | **2-0** | Kane breaks World Cup scoring record, England top Group L |
| Croatia vs Ghana | **2-1** | Vlasic header from Modric corner seals knockout spot |
| Austria vs Algeria | **3-3** | 96th-minute equalizer sends both teams through |
| Brazil vs Scotland | **3-0** | Neymar returns from bench, Brazil cruise |
| Norway vs Senegal | **3-2** | Haaland bags a brace to guide Norway through |
| South Africa vs South Korea | **1-0** | Broos’ side clinches knockout berth |
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## Messi Breaks More Records
Lionel Messi continues to defy time. Brought on in the 60th minute against Jordan with Argentina already having secured top spot in Group J, the Inter Miami star curled a trademark free-kick around the wall to seal a 3-1 victory.
That goal was Messi’s **sixth** of the tournament — putting him two clear in the Golden Boot race — and his **19th** World Cup goal overall, extending his own all-time record. More impressively, he became the **first male player in history to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches**, dating back to the 2018 group stage.
“He’s so clever, so bright. He’s so aware of what’s going on around him. It’s an absolute pleasure to watch him do what he does,” former England midfielder Danny Murphy said on BBC One.
## Kane Becomes England’s All-Time World Cup Scorer
Harry Kane now stands alone. His close-range header against Panama — set up by Jude Bellingham — was Kane’s **11th World Cup goal**, moving him one ahead of Gary Lineker as England’s all-time top scorer at the tournament.
The 2-0 win over Panama means England finish top of Group L with maximum points. Next up: DR Congo in the Round of 32 in Atlanta.
“Harry Kane praises Jude Bellingham’s ability to thrive when he has the freedom to attack the game,” BBC reported, after Bellingham scored the opener and turned creator for Kane’s record-breaking moment.
## DR Congo’s Historic Achievement
Fifty-two years after a chastening World Cup debut as Zaire (including a 9-0 loss to Yugoslavia), DR Congo has finally reached the knockout stage for the first time. Under French coach Sebastien Desabre, the Leopards held Portugal to a 1-1 draw, lost narrowly to Colombia, and beat Uzbekistan 3-1 to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
They’ll face England in Atlanta on July 1.
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## Round of 32 — Complete Schedule
| Date | Match | Venue |
|——|——-|——-|
| June 28 | South Africa vs Canada | TBD |
| June 29 | Brazil vs Japan | TBD |
| June 29 | Germany vs Paraguay | TBD |
| June 30 | Morocco vs Netherlands | TBD |
| June 30 | Ivory Coast vs Norway | TBD |
| June 30 | France vs Sweden | TBD |
| July 1 | **England vs DR Congo** | Atlanta |
| July 1 | Mexico vs Ecuador | TBD |
| July 1 | Belgium vs Senegal | TBD |
| July 2 | **USA vs Bosnia-Herzegovina** | TBD |
| July 2 | Spain vs Austria | TBD |
| July 3 | Switzerland vs Algeria | TBD |
| July 3 | Australia vs Egypt | TBD |
| July 3 | Argentina vs Cape Verde | TBD |
| July 3 | Portugal vs Croatia | TBD |
| July 4 | Colombia vs Ghana | TBD |
*All times and venues subject to confirmation.*
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## Looking Ahead
The Round of 32 kicks off today with **South Africa vs Canada** — both sides making their first knockout appearances. All eyes will be on the **USA vs Bosnia-Herzegovina** clash on July 2, where Mauricio Pochettino’s side will look to bounce back from a 3-2 defeat to Turkey in the group stage finale.
Can Messi keep his scorching form into the knockout rounds? Will Kane lead England deep into the tournament? And can the host nations make a run?
The answers start coming this week.
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### FAQ
**Q: When does the World Cup 2026 Round of 32 start?**
A: The Round of 32 begins on June 28 with South Africa vs Canada and runs through July 4.
**Q: How many teams qualified for the knockout stage?**
A: 32 teams advanced — the top two from each of the 12 groups plus the eight best third-placed teams.
**Q: Who are the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup?**
A: Argentina, Brazil, England, and France are among the top contenders based on group stage performances.
**Q: Where can I watch World Cup 2026 matches?**
A: Matches are broadcast on FOX (US), BBC/ITV (UK), and various local broadcasters. Check your local listings.
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