Updated List of Teams Eliminated from FIFA World Cup 2026
Some teams in North America saw their 2026 World Cup hopes end sooner than they wanted. The expansion to 48 teams has changed the dynamics, giving many more nations a chance to reach the knockout rounds than ever before. Yet, early exits remain a reality for several squads.
Which Nations Have Been Eliminated?
The enlarged tournament means fewer teams are knocked out before the final group matches. This is due to eight of the top third-place finishers advancing alongside the top two from each group. Still, by June 23, four teams were confirmed out of the tournament.
Haiti, Turkey, Tunisia, and Panama were among the first knocked out. A new tiebreak rule affected some results: teams tied on points are ranked based on head-to-head records rather than overall goal difference. For example, Haiti lost to Scotland and Brazil, leaving them unable to surpass those teams despite potentially earning three points later.
How Do Group Tiebreakers Work?
FIFA outlined the following order for breaking ties when teams finish level on points:
- Head-to-head results between tied teams
- Goal difference in those head-to-head matches
- Goals scored in those matches
- If still tied, overall goal difference in the group
- Overall goals scored in the group
- Team conduct score (based on cards)
- FIFA ranking as a last resort
Do Third-Place Teams Advance?
Eight of the best third-place teams move on to the Round of 32. They are ranked by points, then goal difference, goals scored, conduct score, and FIFA ranking.
World Cup Expansion Details
Since 1998, 32 teams participated in the World Cup. Starting in 2026, that number rose to 48. This adds four groups in the first phase and an extra knockout round, so the winner plays eight matches total.
