Mexico, South Africa and Brazil clinch round‑of‑32 spots at World Cup 2026

Mexico completed a perfect group‑stage record, beating the Czech Republic 3‑0 in Mexico City. Goals from Mateo Chávez (55'), Kinioni (61') and Fidalgo (90+4') gave the team three wins from three games and secured first place in Group A. More than 800,000 fans flooded the Angel de la Independencia to celebrate the triumph.

South Africa earned a historic knockout‑stage berth by defeating South Korea 1‑0 in Monte‑Réi. A 63' strike by Thapelo Maseko, assisted by Moremi, gave the Bafana Bafana a first ever appearance in the World Cup round of 32; they will meet Canada in Los Angeles.

Brazil topped Group C after a 3‑0 victory over Scotland in Miami. Vinícius Júnior opened the scoring, followed by a second from Vinícius Júnior and a third from Kun Ari. Neymar made his tournament comeback as a substitute in the 76th minute. The win guaranteed Brazil the group’s top spot and a place among the final 32 teams.

Other groups also concluded, with Switzerland and Bosnia securing advancement, while Morocco and the Ivory Coast advanced as the best third‑placed teams.