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Teams Already Out of World Cup 2026: Updated List of Eliminations

The 2026 World Cup offers more teams than ever a shot at advancing beyond the group stage. With the tournament expanded from 32 to 48 teams, an extra knockout round has been added, allowing 32 teams to reach the elimination phase instead of 16.

This expansion means most nations will continue their journey past the first round, yet disappointment still awaits those who exit early or fail in later rounds, especially countries expected to perform strongly.

Which Teams Have Been Eliminated?

Due to the format, few teams are confirmed out before the last group matches conclude since eight top third-place teams also move on. These rankings only finalize after all matchday three games end. Still, as of June 24, a handful of squads have seen their campaigns end.

The initial four teams out were Haiti, Turkey, Ghana, and Tunisia. A key factor in these early exits lies in new tie-break rules for the group stage. When teams tie on points, the ranking depends first on head-to-head results within the group.

For example, Haiti’s losses to Scotland and Brazil mean they cannot surpass Morocco or Brazil in Group C, even if they pick up points later. Their best outcome is tying with Scotland on points, but Scotland's head-to-head victory places them ahead.

Understanding the Group Tie-Breakers

FIFA set clear criteria for resolving ties after group play:

  • Head-to-head results among tied teams
  • Goal difference in those specific games
  • Goals scored in those games
  • If still tied, overall group goal difference
  • Overall goals scored in the group
  • Team conduct score based on cards received
  • FIFA ranking if all else fails

Advancement of Third-Place Teams

Another unique feature of the 2026 World Cup is that the eight best third-place teams also move on to the Round of 32. Their ranking is judged by:

  • Points earned in group play
  • Goal difference in the group
  • Goals scored
  • Team conduct score
  • FIFA ranking

More Teams, More Matches

Before 2026, the World Cup had 32 participants since 1998. The new format adds four groups and an extra knockout round, so the eventual winner will play eight games total.

We think this change creates a longer, more demanding tournament, but it also increases opportunities for surprises and breakthrough performances.

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