The 2026 FIFA World Cup will introduce a 48‑team tournament for the first time, ending a 24‑year streak of 32‑team competitions that began in 1998.
This change reshapes the schedule, featuring a group stage of 12 four‑team groups, followed by knockout rounds: round of 32, round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final.
After the group stage, the top two teams from each group advance, along with up to eight third‑placed teams that boast the best records.
Seeking the world title now requires winning eight matches, one more than the previous seven‑game pathway to the trophy.
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