World Cup 2026: Early Movers in the 48-Team Knockout Scramble

Top two from each of 12 groups qualify, plus the eight best third-placed teams — 32 advance

Germany (7-1 v Curacao) and Sweden (5-1 v Tunisia) made the loudest matchday-one statements

USA, Mexico, Australia, Scotland and Ivory Coast also opened with wins

Argentina, France, Spain, England and Portugal's groups are still to fully kick off

Group stage ends 27 June; the new Round of 32 runs 28 June–3 July; final is 19 July at MetLife Stadium