WC-2026: Decisive Matchday 3 Games — Who Advances to the Knockout Stage and Who Goes Home

On the night of June 25 to 26, the decisive third-round group stage matches for Groups D, E, and F of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place. These games will be the last chance for many teams to stay in the tournament, while group leaders will try to finalize their standings before the start of the Round of 16.

Group D: Germany is already in the knockout stage, but the battle continues

Germany has already secured first place in the group with 6 points. Ivory Coast (3 points) is close to advancing to the next round, but Ecuador and Curaçao (1 point each) still have mathematical chances to continue. For them, any result other than a victory will most likely mean elimination from the tournament. The Ivorians only need a win to succeed, while a draw might suffice only if Ecuador loses points.

Group E: Netherlands and Japan are favorites, but Sweden could turn the table upside down

The situation in this group is very tense: Netherlands and Japan (4 points each) are already one foot in the next round. However, a victory for Sweden (3 points) could turn the tournament table upside down. If the Scandinavians overcome Japan, and the parallel match ends unsuccessfully for the Netherlands, one of the favorites risks a sensational exit from the tournament. Tunisia has already missed its chances to continue.

Group F: USA leads, Turkey is eliminated, Paraguay and Australia decide their fate

The USA (6 points) has already secured leadership in the group, while Turkey, after two defeats, ended its participation in the WC-2026 early. Therefore, the final round match between them effectively turns into a friendly. Instead, attention is focused on the head-to-head duel between Paraguay and Australia (3 points each). A draw is enough for the Australians thanks to a better goal difference, while Paraguay needs only a victory to advance to the Round of 16.

Where to watch the matches in Ukraine

Live broadcasts of the matches in Ukraine will be available on the Megogo media service with MEGOPACK and "Sport" subscriptions, as well as in MEGOPACK N+S and MEGOPACK Y.

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