FIFA World Cup 2026: List of all nations to qualify for round of 32 as best third-placed teams
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The best third-placed nations will have a chance to play in the knockout stage.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is in full swing. The group stage of the competition is coming to an end. Next up: the drama of knockout football.
However, determining the composition of the teams in the first knockout round of the FIFA World Cup 2026 is a little unique this time around.
As part of FIFA’s expansion to a 48-team event in FIFA World Cup 2026, a round of 32 was added. It precedes the traditional last-16 round. However, to guarantee that all 32 spots were filled, it was agreed that the eight best third-place teams from the group stage would join the 24 teams who finished as top two in the 12 groups.
With only a handful of matches of the group games left, the round of 32 is already taking shape. We have learned a few fixtures ahead of the knockout stage.
Moreover, some of the best third-placed nations have also qualified for the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Meanwhile, many are yet to learn their fate. As mentioned above, we will have the eight best third-placed teams to play in the round of 32.
We already have three nations that have secured their place in the round of 32 after finishing third in their respective group. Meanwhile, we are yet to see the other five sides to book their place in the knockout stage.
With this, we take a look at the three best third-placed teams to seal their berth in the round of 32.
List of nations qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 32 as the best third-placed teams
Sweden
Ecuador
Bosnia & Herzegovina
How many best third-placed nations will qualify for the round of 32?
Eight.
How many have qualified so far?
Sweden, Ecuador and Bosnia.
When is the round of 32 starting?
28 June.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.