World Cup 2026 Group Stage Delivers Upsets and Canada’s First Knockout Win

The group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup concluded on June 27‑28 with several unexpected results. Colombia overtook Portugal to win Group K, while Cape Verde qualified unbeaten ahead of Spain and Uruguay. The United States topped Group D and Mexico posted a perfect record in Group A.

In the opening round‑of‑16 match, Canada recorded its first ever knockout‑stage victory, defeating South Africa 1‑0 in Los Angeles. Eustáquio scored in stoppage time and was named player of the match, sending Canada to the quarter‑finals in Houston.

Other notable performances included Argentina’s continued dominance in Group J, France’s 100 % record, and traditional powers such as Brazil, Germany, England, Belgium and the Netherlands all advancing as expected. Uruguay finished bottom of its group without a win and was eliminated early.