World Cup 2026 Knockout Stage Begins: Messi Magic, DR Congo Historic Win & Full Schedule

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The group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially wrapped up, and the knockout rounds are here! With 12 groups and 48 teams whittled down to 32, the tournament across the US, Canada, and Mexico is heating up. Let’s break down the final group action and what’s coming next.

Final Group Stage Results — June 28

The final group matches delivered drama, records, and heartbreak:

Group K

MatchScore
Colombia vs Portugal0-0
DR Congo vs Uzbekistan3-1

Group J

MatchScore
Algeria vs Austria3-3
Jordan vs Argentina1-3

Key Moments & Highlights

🇦🇷 Messi Does It Again

Lionel Messi came off the bench to score a stunning free-kick and set more records as Argentina cruised past Jordan 3-1 to top Group J with a perfect 9 points. The defending champions look dangerous heading into the knockout rounds.

🇨🇩 DR Congo Makes History

A historic 3-1 win over Uzbekistan secured DR Congo’s place in the Round of 32. The Congolese finished as the best third-placed team, setting up a blockbuster tie against England on July 1.

🇦🇹 Austria’s 96th-Minute Drama

Austria snatched a 96th-minute equalizer against Algeria in a wild 3-3 draw that saw both nations advance to the knockout stages. Austria finished 2nd in Group J, while Algeria qualified as one of the best third-placed teams.

❌ Scotland Eliminated, Clarke Resigns

In a heartbreaking end, Scotland were officially eliminated from the World Cup, failing to finish among the eight best third-placed teams. Manager Steve Clarke stepped down shortly after the confirmation, ending his tenure.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 England Top Group L

England beat Panama 2-0 with Harry Kane becoming England’s all-time leading World Cup scorer (12 goals). Jude Bellingham also scored as England secured top spot in Group L.

🇨🇴 Colombia Wins Group K

A 0-0 draw with Portugal was enough for Colombia to top Group K after their late goal was controversially ruled out for offside by a toe.

Full Round of 32 Schedule

June 28

  • South Africa vs Canada (20:00 UK)

June 29

  • Brazil vs Japan
  • Germany vs Paraguay

June 30

  • Netherlands vs Morocco
  • Ivory Coast vs Norway
  • France vs Sweden

July 1

  • Mexico vs Ecuador
  • England vs DR Congo
  • Belgium vs Senegal
  • Colombia vs Ghana

July 2

  • USA vs Bosnia-Herzegovina
  • Spain vs Austria

July 3

  • Switzerland vs Algeria
  • Australia vs Egypt
  • Portugal vs Croatia
  • Argentina vs Cape Verde

Looking Ahead

The Round of 32 promises mouth-watering matchups. All eyes will be on England vs DR Congo, Argentina’s quest for back-to-back titles starting against Cape Verde, and host nation USA taking on Bosnia-Herzegovina. Can anyone stop France (9 points, +8 GD) or Argentina (9 points, +7 GD)?

The tournament runs through until the final on July 19 — buckle up!

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PC Master Deals earns from qualifying purchases. Check official FIFA channels for the latest match times and broadcast information.

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