After two rounds of matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the tournament has already produced a fascinating blend of expected dominance, surprise packages, dramatic underdog stories, and a fierce battle for the best third-placed qualification spots. With one group match remaining for most teams, the race for the Round of 32 is beginning to take shape.
The Teams Already Through
A handful of teams have wasted no time securing qualification.
Mexico (Group A)
Mexico have been clinical rather than spectacular. Two wins from two matches, three goals scored, none conceded, and six points place them firmly at the top of Group A. Their disciplined defending has been the hallmark of their campaign so far.
USA (Group D)
The Americans have been one of the most convincing sides in the competition. Six goals scored, only one conceded, and back-to-back victories have already booked their place in the knockout rounds. Their 4-1 win over Paraguay, followed by a 2-0 victory over Australia, underlined their status as serious contenders.
Germany (Group E)
Germany has been ruthless. A 7-1 demolition of Curacao followed by a 2-1 win over Ivory Coast leaves them with six points and an impressive +7 goal difference. Few teams have looked more dangerous in attack.
France (Group I)
The French have quietly gone about their business with two wins, six goals scored, and only one conceded. They have looked every bit the tournament heavyweight many expected.
Argentina (Group J)
Argentina have delivered exactly what was expected from one of football’s traditional powers. Two wins, five goals from Lionel Messi (now the all-time World Cup top scorer), and none conceded make them one of the most balanced teams in the tournament.
Colombia and England
Both Colombia (Group K) and England (Group L) sit on six and four points, respectively, with Colombia already perfect after two wins. At the same time, England remains unbeaten and in control of their group. Colombia’s defensive record of just one goal conceded has been particularly impressive.
The biggest positive surprises
Morocco’s strong showing
Morocco has continued their reputation as a giant-killer. Sitting second in Group C with four points, they remain unbeaten after holding Brazil and defeating Scotland. Their organisation and resilience have again proven difficult to break down.
Egypt Leading Group G
Many would have expected Belgium to dominate Group G, yet Egypt currently lead the section with four points and a positive goal difference. Their victory over New Zealand, combined with a draw against Belgium, has put them in an excellent position heading into the final round.
Ghana’s Impressive Campaign
Ghana have quietly built one of Africa’s strongest campaigns. Four points from two matches, including a draw against England, leave them second in Group L and within touching distance of qualification.
Ivory Coast staying in the fight
The Ivorians occupy second place in Group E after defeating Ecuador. Considering they share a group with Germany, remaining in contention is an impressive achievement.
What was obvious?
Some football giants have simply looked like football giants.
Germany’s firepower
Nine goals in two matches make Germany the highest-scoring side among the group leaders. Their attack has overwhelmed opponents.
Brazil finding its rhythm
Brazil began with a draw against Morocco but responded strongly with a 3-0 victory over Haiti. They lead Group C and remain one of the tournament Favorites.
France and Argentina looking comfortable
Neither France nor Argentina have shown signs of vulnerability. Both have maximum points and appear destined for deep tournament runs.
Netherlands and Japan emerging together
Group F has seen both the Netherlands and Japan remain unbeaten. The Dutch top the group on four points, while Japan sit second with the same tally after their impressive 4-0 victory over Tunisia.
The Biggest Disappointments
Belgium
Belgium entered the tournament with high expectations but sits third in Group G with only two points from two draws. They now face a nervous final-day battle just to stay alive.
Uruguay
The South Americans have drawn both matches and currently occupy second place in Group H. While still unbeaten, they have yet to show the dominance many expected.
Senegal
After two defeats, Senegal’s hopes hang by a thread. Their position among the lower-ranked third-place teams means they need a significant final-day turnaround.
Qatar
One point from two matches and a goal difference of -6 leaves Qatar staring at elimination unless results dramatically swing their way.
Groups that are still Wide Open
Group G – The Tightest Group
Egypt lead with four points, but Iran and Belgium are both within striking distance. Even New Zealand are not mathematically eliminated. One final matchday could completely reshuffle the standings.
Group H – Nobody Secure Yet
Spain leads with four points, Uruguay have two, Cape Verde has two, and Saudi Arabia has one. Every team still has something to play for.
Group K – Portugal vs Colombia
Both Colombia and Portugal have six points and have already created a separation from DR Congo and Uzbekistan. Their final meeting will determine who wins the group.
Group L – England, Ghana and Croatia
England lead with four points, Ghana also have four, while Croatia sit on three after defeating Panama. The final round promises high drama.
Best 3rd-placed Team Race
The ranking of third-placed teams currently shows: Sweden, Scotland, Croatia, Paraguay, Algeria, Cape Verde, Belgium, Czech Republic, DR Congo, Ecuador, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Senegal.
Best Positioned
- Sweden (3 points, GD 0)
- Scotland (3 points, GD 0)
- Croatia (3 points, GD -1)
- Paraguay (3 points, GD -2)
- Algeria (3 points, GD -2)
These teams currently occupy the strongest positions among third-placed sides and are well placed to challenge for qualification if they earn positive results in their final matches.
Still Hopeful
- Cape Verde
- Belgium
- Czech Republic
- DR Congo
- Ecuador
- Bosnia & Herzegovina
These sides remain very much alive and could leap into qualification positions with a win on the final matchday.
As the final group matches approach, several teams have already packed their bags for the knockout rounds, while others are preparing for ninety minutes that could define their World Cup. For the third-placed teams, every goal now matters. In a tournament where eight third-placed sides can advance, even a single strike could mean the difference between elimination and a ticket to the Round of 32.