Road to the Final
From 48 teams to 1 champion. Follow the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026, from the Round of 32 all the way to the Final in New York.
New 2026 Format: 48 Teams
For the first time, the World Cup features 48 teams divided into 12 groups of 4. The top 2 from each group (24 teams) plus the 8 best third-placed teams advance to the knockout rounds, creating an exciting new Round of 32.
Knockout Stage Breakdown
Round of 32
The first knockout round features the top 32 teams from the group stage. Group winners and runners-up advance, plus the best third-placed teams.
Round of 16
The Sweet 16 features the remaining teams fighting for a spot in the quarterfinals. Historic rivalries often emerge at this stage.
Quarterfinals
Eight teams remain, four matches determine who reaches the semifinals. This is where legends are made.
Semifinals
The final four battle for a place in the World Cup Final. Winners advance to the ultimate match.
Third Place Match
The two semifinal losers compete for the bronze medal. A chance for redemption and a podium finish.
Final
The ultimate match. Two nations compete for the most prestigious trophy in football. One team will be crowned World Champions.
The World Cup Final will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with an expected global TV audience of over 1.5 billion viewers.
Key Knockout Stage Venues
MetLife Stadium
New York/New Jersey
Final, Semifinals
AT&T Stadium
Dallas, Texas
Semifinals, Quarterfinals
SoFi Stadium
Los Angeles
Quarterfinals
Estadio Azteca
Mexico City
Quarterfinals
Hard Rock Stadium
Miami
Quarterfinals
When Will the Bracket Be Set?
The complete knockout bracket will be determined after the group stage concludes on June 27, 2026. The bracket depends on:
- Final group standings (1st, 2nd, and best 3rd place teams)
- FIFA's predetermined bracket structure to avoid same-group rematches early
- Geographic considerations for venue assignments
Don't Miss a Single Match
Find out where to watch every knockout match in your country.