The Economic Times

FIFA World Cup 2026 Standings: How teams are ranked, what the new third-place rules mean, and who can still reach the Round of 32

FIFA World Cup 2026 Standings: The FIFA World Cup 2026 introduces a thrilling 48-team format with 12 groups, making every point vital. For the first time, eight of the best third-placed teams will also advance to the Round of 32, alongside the top two from each group. This expanded system creates more qualification pathways, ensuring intense competition and unexpected outcomes right up to the final group matches.