Three teams eliminated after two matches under new tiebreaker rule
Haiti, Turkiye, and Tunisia have been knocked out of the 2026 World Cup after just two group stage matches, a result of a new rule introduced for this tournament. Instead of goal difference, the first tiebreaker for teams level on points is now head-to-head record. This change has accelerated eliminations, with three teams already out compared to two at the same stage in Qatar 2022.
Haiti's early exit
Haiti became the first team eliminated after losing 1-0 to Scotland and 3-0 to Brazil in Group C. Their defeat to Scotland was particularly damaging, as it was a must-win game given the presence of Brazil and Morocco. This ends Haiti's first World Cup campaign since 1974.
Turkiye's disappointing campaign
Turkiye, expected to advance from a group with the USA, Australia, and Paraguay, lost 2-0 to Australia and 1-0 to Paraguay. The loss to Paraguay was especially frustrating, as the South Americans played with 10 men for the entire second half. Turkiye's final match against the USA is now meaningless.
Tunisia's calamitous tournament
Tunisia suffered a 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their opener, leading to the sacking of coach Sabri Lamouchi – the first manager ever fired after one World Cup match. His successor, Herve Renard, Tunisia's seventh manager since qualifying began, could not prevent a 4-0 loss to Japan, confirming their elimination.
Impact of the head-to-head tiebreaker
The new rule has allowed three teams to secure group top spots after two matches, compared to none at Qatar 2022. Mexico (Group A), USA (Group D), and Germany (Group E) have all qualified for the Round of 32. The Round of 32, featuring 12 group winners, 12 runners-up, and eight best third-placed teams, runs from June 28 to July 3.
