Al Jazeera reports that 48 matches have been played in North America at the 2026 World Cup, with 12 groups where the top two teams plus eight best third-placed teams advance, sending 32 nations to the knockout stage. Second-round group fixtures run June 24-27, including Scotland versus Brazil at Miami Stadium. Brazil and Morocco lead Group C on four points each.
“World Cup 2026: Full group schedule and top third-round matches to watch”
Read at Al Jazeera →“How does the World Cup work? Everything to know about 2026 men's tournament - USA Today”
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The expanded 12-group format with additional third-place qualifiers provides more nations opportunities to compete against powers like Brazil.
“Inclusion of smaller nations and underdog narratives in a North American setting”
The structure rewards performance through a merit-based system that advances 32 teams based on results.
“Emphasis on competitive rigor, tradition, and established football powers”
Matches proceed via voluntary contracts among federations, players, and spectators without state mandates.
“Decentralized competition driven by consumer demand and performance”
All prior views overlook that the format expansion serves commercial interests of a cartel organization and relies on public subsidies.
“Revenue maximization, venue costs, and reduced competitive quality from additional qualifiers”
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