World Cup group stage concludes following 72 matches
BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 29, 2026, 10:38 AM
Last updated Jun 29, 2026

The group stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has concluded, determining which teams advance to the round of 32. After 72 matches, the tournament bracket has been finalized, with a total of 48 teams participating. Fans can engage with the event by taking a quiz focused on key statistics from the group stage. Further quizzes related to football and the World Cup are available for those interested.
- •The tournament featured the largest group stage in World Cup history.
- •72 matches were played to finalize the tournament bracket.
- •48 teams participated in the group stage.
- •Quizzes on World Cup statistics are available for fans.
- •Next matches will be in the knockout phase.
- 10:38 AMBBC Sport — World Cup quiz: How well do you know the group stage in numbers?
"The biggest ever group stage at a World Cup is over - test yourself on the numbers of the first round of games.
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