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**The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage is wrapping up with unforgettable drama — from Cape Verde’s fairytale qualification to Belgium’s statement win and Uruguay’s heartbreaking exit. Here’s everything you need to know.**
Match Results — June 26-27, 2026
| Match | Score | Group | Key Story |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belgium vs New Zealand | 5-1 | G | Belgium top group, NZ eliminated |
| Egypt vs Iran | 1-1 | G | Egypt through, Iran still alive |
| Spain vs Uruguay | 1-0 | H | Spain top group, Uruguay out |
| Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia | 0-0 | H | Cape Verde advance to last 32! |
Cape Verde — The Fairytale of the Tournament
Cape Verde has become the smallest nation in World Cup history to reach the knockout stage. With a population of just 525,000, the Blue Sharks finished as Group H runners-up after a remarkable campaign:
- Match 1: 0-0 draw with Spain (40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha made 7 saves)
- Match 2: 2-2 draw with two-time champions Uruguay
- Match 3: 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia
Their reward? A Round of 32 clash against defending champions Argentina — led by five-goal Lionel Messi.
“Tears of pride and joy all around the stands,” said BBC commentator Rob Law as players huddled around phones on the pitch, waiting to learn their fate after Spain’s win over Uruguay confirmed their progression.
Belgium Finally Fires — 5-1 Rout of New Zealand
After two lackluster performances, Belgium exploded to life in Vancouver:
- Leandro Trossard scored twice (28′, 50′)
- Kevin De Bruyne delivered a masterclass (1 goal, 2 assists)
- Romelu Lukaku scored 56 seconds after coming off the bench
- Alexis Saelemaekers added a fifth in stoppage time
Belgium top Group G on goal difference and will face a third-placed team in the last 32.
Spain Send Uruguay Home
European champions Spain secured top spot in Group H with a 1-0 win over Uruguay. Alex Baena’s 42nd-minute strike proved decisive after another costly error from Uruguay’s legendary goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, who was substituted at halftime. Uruguay’s misery was compounded by Agustin Canobbio’s stoppage-time red card and an injury to Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte.
Iran Keep Dreaming
Iran drew 1-1 with Egypt in Seattle, keeping their hopes alive for a best third-placed qualification spot. Iran have drawn all three group matches and now wait on results from Groups J, K, and L. Coach Amir Ghalenoei praised his players amid ongoing visa and travel restrictions imposed by US authorities.
Golden Boot Race Heats Up
| Player | Goals |
|---|---|
| Lionel Messi (ARG) | 5 |
| Kylian Mbappé (FRA) | 4 |
| Erling Haaland (NOR) | 4 |
| Ousmane Dembélé (FRA) | 4 |
Messi will start Argentina’s final group match against Jordan on the bench, with manager Scaloni confirming the decision to rest the 39-year-old superstar.
Looking Ahead
Argentina vs Cape Verde headlines the Round of 32 draw — David vs Goliath in every sense. Spain will face the runners-up of Group J, while Belgium await a third-placed qualifier.
The expanded 48-team format means 32 teams advance to the knockout stage for the first time in World Cup history, promising an unprecedented six rounds of elimination football.
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