Via CBS Sports

2026 FIFA World Cup third place standings, positions: Who qualifies for the round of 32?

Q: Where can I read the full article?

The complete story is available at CBS Sports: https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/fifa-world-cup-third-place-standings-positions-round-of-32/

Q: Who published the original report?

CBS Sports originally published this story on June 24, 2026.

Q: What related topics does this story cover?

African Football, Health & Pandemics, Trade & AfCFTA, Infrastructure, African Sports

June 24, 2026

2026 FIFA World Cup third place standings, positions: Who qualifies for the round of 32?

<h2>Eight teams that end up in third place will play the round of 32 of the World Cup</h2>

<p>The <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/world-cup-group-standings-table-results/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2026 FIFA World Cup</a> is entering its decisive moments of the group stage with teams battling for a place in the knockout rounds. Under the tournament's expanded 48-team format, qualification for knockout rounds is no longer reserved just for the group winners and runners-up. Also, the eight best third-placed teams across the 12 groups will take part, completing the 32-team knockout bracket for the round of 32. Here's what you need to know ahead of the final stint of the first phase: </p>

<h2>Third-Place qualification explained</h2>

<p>The 12 teams that finish third in their groups will be ranked in a separate table, with the top eight advancing to the Round of 32. Here's how they will be ranked: </p>

<li>Greatest number of points obtained in all group matches</li>

<li>Great goal difference resulting from all group matches</li>

<li>Greatest number of goals scored in all group matches</li>

<li>Highest team conduct score (players and team officials) relating to the number of yellow and red cards obtained in all group matches</li>

<li>The two or more teams still equal on points shall be ranked according to the most recent published edition of the FIFA Men's World Ranking</li>

<h2>Current standings: Eight best third-placed teams</h2>

<p><em>As of Wednesday, June 24, 9 a.m. ET.</em></p>

2026 FIFA World Cup third place standings, positions: Who qualifies for the round of 32?

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