The final day of group play at the World Cup is set to decide the last four spots that will fill the round of 32, with several nations already assured of progression. The stakes are high as teams jostle for positioning and momentum heading into the knockout phase.
Key fixtures on the final round
Morocco will meet the Netherlands, Japan will take on Brazil, and Norway will face Ivory Coast, while other contests such as France versus Sweden, Germany against Paraguay, and Australia versus Egypt will also shape the knockout draw. The eight best third‑place teams will also advance, with ties broken by goal differential and goals scored.
Round of 32 matchups taking shape
The United States will square off against Bosnia‑Herzegovina, South Africa will meet Canada, and Brazil will clash with Japan, while Argentina will play Cape Verde, Germany will encounter Paraguay, and Australia will face Egypt. These pairings set the stage for a series of high‑profile encounters.
Star moments and tactical notes
U.S. star Christian Pulisic entered as a substitute in the second half against Turkey, and midfielder Sebastian Berhalter scored the team's goal. The United States' momentum was stalled in that loss, while Brazil followed an opening draw with Morocco by winning its next two group games 3‑0 each. Norway's coach Ståle Solbakken opted to rest Erling Haaland and all but one starter for the match against Ivory Coast.
Coaches and rest strategies
Solbakken's decision to limit Haaland's minutes reflects a broader tactical approach aimed at preserving fitness for the knockout stage, a move that could pay dividends if the team advances deep into the tournament.
The tournament's favorite, France, remained unbeaten after three group victories, while Germany is viewed as a significant favorite against Paraguay. Japan advanced as Group F runner‑up with a hard‑fought 1‑1 draw against Sweden, and the Netherlands secured first place in the group after a draw with Japan and an 8‑2 aggregate goal differential.