The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage concluded with historic milestones, including a record nine African teams advancing to the Round of 32. Lionel Messi became the first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches during Argentina's 3-1 victory over Jordan. Cristiano Ronaldo also reached a notable landmark, making his 25th World Cup appearance.
Messi's Record-Breaking Streak
Argentina finished Group J with a perfect record, beating Jordan 3-1. Despite rotating the squad and starting Messi on the bench, Argentina led 2-0 through goals from Giovani Lo Celso and a Lautaro Martinez penalty. Jordan pulled one back via Musa Al-Taamari, but Messi came off the bench to score a trademark free-kick, sealing the win and etching his name in history.
Messi became the first men's player to score in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup matches, a streak that began with a hat-trick against Algeria and a brace against Austria. He also became the fourth player to score in all three group stage matches since the format's 1998 introduction, joining Cristiano Ronaldo (2018), David Villa (2010), and Fernando Torres (2010). His goal against Jordan took his World Cup tally to 19, extending his record as Argentina's all-time leading scorer. He leads the tournament with six goals after the group stage.
According to 433's X handle, Messi also became the first player to reach the knockout stage in six consecutive World Cups (2006-2026). Argentina will face Cape Verde in the Round of 32, while Jordan exits after three straight losses.
Ronaldo's Milestone and Portugal's Draw
In Group K, Portugal and Colombia played out a 0-0 draw in Miami. Colombia finished top of the group, while Portugal finished second. Cristiano Ronaldo made his 25th World Cup appearance, equaling Lothar Matthaus for the second-most appearances, according to Opta Analyst. Only Messi (29 appearances) has featured in more. Ronaldo also extended an unusual statistic, being flagged offside 11 times across the last two World Cups, four more than any other player.
England, Croatia, and DR Congo Advance
England wrapped up their Group L campaign with a 2-0 win over Panama, finishing top with seven points. Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane scored, with Kane becoming England's all-time leading World Cup scorer with 11 goals, surpassing Gary Lineker. Bellingham became the youngest England player since 1966 to both score and assist in a World Cup match. England topped the group ahead of Croatia and Ghana, while Panama exited without a win or goal.
Croatia defeated Ghana 2-1 to secure their Round of 32 spot. Petar Sucic opened the scoring, Derrick Luckassen equalized, and Nikola Vlasic scored a late winner from a Luka Modric corner. Ghana also progressed as one of the best third-placed teams.
DR Congo came from behind to beat Uzbekistan 3-1, securing their first-ever World Cup win and a historic knockout stage berth. Yoane Wissa scored a penalty and a late brace, with Fiston Mayele also on target. Uzbekistan, making their World Cup debut, were eliminated.
Africa's Historic Achievement
Nine of Africa's 10 participating teams—Morocco, South Africa, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Egypt, Algeria, Congo DR, and Cape Verde—qualified for the Round of 32, a record-breaking achievement. Tunisia was the only African side to miss out. This far surpasses the previous record of two African teams reaching the knockout stage in 2014. In contrast, only Japan and Australia represent Asia in the Round of 32.
Notable moments included Algeria's thrilling 3-3 draw with Austria, where Riyad Mahrez scored twice but Sasa Kalajdzic equalized in stoppage time. Algeria advanced as one of the best third-placed teams, alongside Austria. Morocco impressed with strong performances, including a draw against Brazil.
Round of 32 Teams and Schedule
The Round of 32 features groups A through L. Key matches include South Africa vs Canada on June 29, Brazil vs Japan on June 29, and Argentina vs Cape Verde on July 4. The full schedule includes matches from June 29 to July 4, with times in IST.
