Uruguay-Saudi Exit: Portugal Among 5 Teams Into Knockouts

Darwin, 27 June : For the first time ever, with 48 teams participating, the ongoing World Cup has seen many new developments. The group stage is now in its final round. Eight groups have already completed their matches, while the remaining four groups are still in progress. After the conclusion of Group H this morning (Saturday), Portugal, England, Ghana, Egypt, and Paraguay have secured their places in the Round of 32, despite each of them still having one match left to play.

From Group H, Spain qualified as group champions, while Cape Verde made history by advancing as runners-up. On the other hand, former world champions Uruguay were eliminated after losing to Spain, and Saudi Arabia were knocked out after a goalless draw with Cape Verde.

Essentially, after the matches in Spain’s group, five teams from other groups who had at least 4 points have now advanced to the Round of 32. Among them, only Paraguay have completed all three of their group matches. The Latin American side, with 4 points, currently sits third in Group D. Australia also advanced earlier to the Round of 32 with the same points after a goalless draw in their final group match, while the United States tops that group.

Additionally, four of the already qualified teams still have one match remaining each. Before their final group matches, England, Portugal, Ghana, and Egypt all have 4 points. They have effectively qualified for the knockout stage as teams guaranteed at least third place in their groups. Their final standings may still change depending on their last matches—if they at least manage a draw, they could finish as either group champions or runners-up.

Even if they lose their final matches, England, Portugal, Ghana, and Egypt will still progress. Meanwhile, teams still in contention with 3 or fewer points include South Korea (Group A), Scotland (Group C), and Senegal (Group I), who are still waiting for their fate. Cape Verde, despite having 3 points, have also advanced to the knockout stage as Group H runners-up in their first-ever World Cup appearance.