FIFA World Cup 2026 Group H qualification scenarios explained: Who can reach Round of 32?

Every team in Group H has secured at least one point.

Group H of the 2026 FIFA World Cup includes reigning European champions Spain, two-time champions Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and debutants Cape Verde.

The first game of the group was played between Spain and Cape Verde. The 2010 champions were keen to break the deadlock throughout the game, but they failed, as Vozinha made seven saves, eventually forcing a goalless draw.

In the second game, Uruguay played a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia. Thus, after Matchday 1, all four teams were level on one point. On Matchday 2, Luis de la Fuente’s La Roja finally managed to break the deadlock, courtesy of Lamine Yamal, who scored on his first World Cup start for Spain. The European champions recorded a 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia.

In the most recent game, Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay drew again, this time against Cape Verde. The game ended at 2-2, with the Blue Sharks also scoring their first goal of the World Cup.

Here comes the question about the qualification scenarios of Group H in the FIFA World Cup 2026.

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FIFA World Cup Group H qualification scenarios explained

With one win and one draw, Spain are currently in the pole position of Group H. La Roja will top the group if they defeat Uruguay in their last game. Meanwhile, they could still secure a top-two finish if they manage a draw against Marcelo Bielsa’s men. However, chances of qualifying for the last 32 will be in jeopardy if they lose.

Uruguay are required to win against La Roja if they want to keep their fate in their own hands. They can qualify alongside Spain with a draw in their final match, provided Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia also draw. However, a defeat would lead them to rely on the results of other games. They will be unlikely to advance to the last 32, even as the best third-placed team.

Cape Verde will qualify for the knockout if they beat the Green Falcons and La Celeste fail to beat Spain. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, must defeat Cape Verde and hope Marcelo Bielsa’s side does not take all three points against La Roja.

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