# 2026 FIFA World Cup Knockout Stage Kicks Off Today — Full Round of 32 Preview
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The group stage is over, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout rounds begin **today, June 28**. After 72 matches and 215 goals across 12 groups, 32 teams remain — and the battle for the trophy gets real.
## What’s Happened So Far
The 2026 World Cup — co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico — has already made history. With 4,644,549 spectators through the turnstiles, it broke the all-time attendance record previously held by the 1994 USA World Cup. Lionel Messi leads the Golden Boot race with 6 goals for defending champions Argentina.
The expanded 48-team format delivered drama across all 12 groups, with new rules (10-second substitutions, 5-second restarts, mandatory hydration breaks) adding fresh tactical wrinkles.
## Group Winners Advancing
Here are the group winners heading into the Round of 32:
| Group | Winner |
|——-|——–|
| A | Mexico |
| B | Switzerland |
| D | United States 🇺🇸 |
| E | Germany |
| G | Belgium |
| I | France |
| K | Colombia |
| L | England |
## Key Round of 32 Matchups
The knockout bracket is set. Here are the headline fixtures:
– **USA vs Bosnia and Herzegovina** — The USMNT topped Group D and faces a Bosnia side that advanced as one of the best third-place teams. A strong start is crucial for Pochettino’s squad.
– **Mexico vs Ecuador** — Host nation Mexico takes on Ecuador in a battle of CONCACAF vs CONMEBOL. Expect a raucous atmosphere.
– **Germany vs Paraguay** — The tournament’s most successful European side faces a tough Paraguay team that impressed in the groups.
– **France vs Sweden** — Defending World Cup runners-up France face a familiar European foe.
– **England vs DR Congo** — England topped Group L and will be heavy favorites, but DR Congo’s physical style could cause problems.
– **Belgium vs Senegal** — A fascinating clash between Belgium’s golden generation and Senegal’s African champions.
## New Rules to Watch
The 2026 World Cup introduced several rule changes that could impact knockout matches:
– **10-second substitutions** — Players must exit the pitch within 10 seconds, or the substitute waits one minute
– **5-second restarts** — Visual countdown for throw-ins and goal kicks to prevent time-wasting
– **Mandatory hydration breaks** — 3-minute breaks in each half
– **Expanded VAR** — Now reviews second yellow cards, corner kick errors, and attacking fouls
## Upcoming Schedule
| Stage | Dates |
|——-|——-|
| Round of 32 | June 28 – July 3 |
| Round of 16 | July 4–7 |
| Quarterfinals | July 9–11 |
| Semifinals | July 14–15 |
| Third Place | July 18 |
| **Final** | **July 19 — MetLife Stadium** |
## FAQ
**Q: Where is the World Cup final being played?**
A: The final will be at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on July 19.
**Q: How do the Round of 32 matchups work?**
A: The top 2 teams from each of the 12 groups advance, plus the 8 best third-place teams. Group winners face either runners-up or third-place teams based on a predetermined bracket formula.
**Q: Who is the top scorer so far?**
A: Lionel Messi (Argentina) leads with 6 goals.
**Q: When do the USMNT play next?**
A: The USA faces Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32. Exact date and time are determined by the knockout schedule.
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*This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PC Master Deals earns from qualifying purchases.*
**[Watch World Cup 2026 Live on FuboTV →](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=world+cup+2026&tag=hdnhat-20)**
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