FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage concludes with Ecuador upset, Japan‑Sweden draw and other qualifiers

In the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Ecuador recorded a historic 2‑1 victory over four‑time champion Germany, marking its first win against a UEFA side since 2006 and securing a round‑of‑32 spot.

Japan and Sweden played out a 1‑1 draw, each earning enough points to advance as a best‑third‑place team. Japan will face Brazil next, while Sweden awaits its opponent.

The Netherlands topped Group F with a 3‑1 win over Tunisia, finishing unbeaten with seven points and set to meet Morocco in the last‑16.

Paraguay and Australia drew 0‑0, a result that allowed both teams to progress to the knockout round.

Turkey was eliminated after a 3‑2 loss to the United States, despite a late goal sealing the win for the Americans.

Mexico delivered a dominant 3‑0 performance against Czechia, claiming the Group A lead, keeping a clean sheet and becoming the first team to win all three group matches without conceding a goal since 1970.