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2026 World Cup Day 15: Final Group Matches in D, E, F Unfold

The last set of group games wrapped up with expected outcomes as Brazil, Switzerland, and Mexico topped their groups. Yet, South Africa made history by defeating South Korea, securing their first-ever spot in the knockout round by finishing second in Group A.

South Korea looks likely to advance too, probably as one of the stronger third-place teams. With a large knockout field of 32 from 48 teams, the format is quite forgiving. South Korea faces a tough next challenge, likely against group winners Germany.

South Africa will meet Canada in the Round of 32 after Canada lost to Switzerland and ended as Group B runners-up. Bosnia also won in that group but finished third behind Canada due to goal difference. Bosnia is likely to face USA next week—an exciting matchup that promises plenty of drama.

Group C Recap

Brazil and Morocco both cruised to victories, finishing first and second respectively based on goal difference. Morocco’s match against an already eliminated Haiti (4-2) was entertaining, highlighted by four goals in the first half and some brilliant strikes from Haiti.

Brazil capitalized on Scotland's poor showing with a 3-0 win, featuring two goals from Vini Jr., who now shares the Golden Boot lead with Mbappé and Haaland, just one behind Messi. Scotland’s defense faltered badly, and even Neymar got minutes on the field. While Scotland could still sneak through, their damaged goal difference puts them at risk on the third-place cutoff.

Group E Preview

Germany has secured the top spot in Group E and might rest players against Ecuador, who must win to continue. Ecuador had been seen as potential dark horses but managed only one point so far, making this a do-or-die match.

Curaçao faces Côte d’Ivoire, who have three points and should advance unless both Ecuador and Curaçao win, which would leave them at the bottom despite their points tally.

  • Curaçao vs. Côte d’IvoireJune 25, 2026, 4pm EDT / 9pm BSTLincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PAReferee: Glenn Nyberg (Sweden)Broadcast: FOX Sports 1, Universo (USA); BBC Two (UK)
  • Ecuador vs. GermanyJune 25, 2026, 4pm EDT / 9pm BSTMetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJReferee: Tori Penso (USA)Broadcast: FOX, Telemundo (USA); BBC One (UK)

Group F Outlook

Netherlands and Japan sit on four points, while Sweden has three; all remain in strong positions to advance. Tunisia has been eliminated. Sweden’s situation resembles Scotland's: avoiding a heavy loss should see them through even in third place. Graham Potter’s teams rarely collapse, so expect a fight till the end.

  • Japan vs. SwedenJune 25, 2026, 7pm EDT / Midnight BST (next day)AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TXReferee: Ivan Barton (El Salvador)Broadcast: FOX Sports 1, Universo (USA); ITV 4 (UK)
  • Tunisia vs. NetherlandsJune 25, 2026, 7pm EDT / Midnight BST (next day)Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MOReferee: Katia Itzel García (Mexico)Broadcast: FOX, Telemundo (USA); ITV 1 (UK)

Group D Updates

USA already leads the group, and coach Mauricio Pochettino is expected to rotate the squad. This could give Turkey a final chance, though they remain pointless and must win to stay alive. Paraguay and Australia both have three points; a draw between them would see both advance.

  • Paraguay vs. AustraliaJune 25, 2026, 10pm EDT / 3am BST (next day)Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CAReferee: Clément Turpin (France)Broadcast: FOX Sports 1, Universo (USA); ITV 4 (UK)
  • Turkey vs. USAJune 25, 2026, 10pm EDT / 3am BST (next day)SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, CAReferee: Mustapha Ghorbal (Algeria)Broadcast: FOX, Telemundo (USA); ITV 1 (UK)

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