The 8 best third-placed teams advance to the Round of 32
Drag groups to set the order — top 8 advance.
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Frequently asked questions
How does the round of 32 work?
The 2026 World Cup has 48 teams in 12 groups of 4. The top two from each group advance (24 teams), joined by the 8 best third-placed teams. Together these 32 teams make up the new round of 32, the first knockout round.
How many third-placed teams advance?
The 8 best third-placed teams out of the 12 groups qualify. The simulator automatically ranks them by points, goal difference and goals scored, and draws the cut-off line after 8th place.
How do the FIFA tiebreakers work?
When teams are level on points, the order is: goal difference, then most goals scored. The simulator applies this order (points → goal difference → goals) automatically; if there is an exact tie on the cut-off line you can set the order yourself.
Is the simulator free?
Yes, ScorePath is completely free and you do not need an account. You can replay it as often as you like.
How do I share my scenario?
Click "Share link". Your full bracket — group results and knockout picks — is encoded in the URL, so anyone who opens the link sees exactly your scenario.
What is the difference between EXACT, 1X2 and ORDER modes?
EXACT: enter the precise score per match (e.g. 2-1) for the most accurate goal difference. 1X2: just pick win, draw or loss — fast on mobile. ORDER: drag or tap the teams into your final standing per group, without scores. In every mode you see live who advances.
How many matches does the 2026 World Cup have?
The 2026 World Cup has 104 matches in total: 72 in the group stage (12 groups × 6 matches) and 32 in the knockout phase (round of 32, round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, third-place match and final).
Can I save my simulation?
Your bracket is automatically saved in the URL. Click "Share link" to copy a link that contains your complete scenario — including all group results and knockout choices. You can reopen that link yourself later or share it with others.
Which 48 countries are in the 2026 World Cup?
The 48 participants are split across 12 groups. Host nations USA, Canada and Mexico qualify automatically. The remaining 45 spots are distributed through continental qualifying from UEFA (Europe), CONMEBOL (South America), CAF (Africa), AFC (Asia), CONCACAF and OFC.
Where is the 2026 World Cup played?
The 2026 World Cup is played across three host nations: the USA, Canada and Mexico. Venues include New York/New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Seattle, Boston, San Francisco, Guadalajara, Mexico City and Toronto. The final is on 19 July 2026 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.