The FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada is gaining momentum. On June 25, 2026, matches of the third round in groups A, B, and C took place at the tournament. This day became an important milestone: several teams secured their place in the knockout stage, and for some participants, the tournament ended prematurely.
The main intrigue of the day was the battle for second place and the right to continue in the tournament. On one hand, favorites confirmed their status, on the other hand, surprises occurred that will remain memorable for fans.
Group A: Mexico is confident, South Africa is making history
In group A everything was decided without surprises, but with a strong emotional accent. The Mexican team crushed the Czech Republic 3:0 in the final round. This victory was Mexico's third in a row at the tournament, and they confidently took first place, not conceding a single goal throughout the group stage.
The Czech Republic, for which this World Cup was the first since 2006, finished the tournament in last place, failing to compete with more experienced opponents.
The main event of the day took place in a parallel match, where South Africa defeated South Korea 1:0. This result placed South Africa in second place in the group and gave their fans a historic moment — the South African team made its first-ever World Cup knockout stage. The South Korean team, earning three points, returned home together with the Czech Republic.
Group B: Swiss precision and Bosnian hope
In group B the battle for first place was extremely tight. In a direct match, Switzerland defeated Canada 2:1 and finished at the top of the table. For Canada, this defeat was their first at the tournament, but it did not prevent them from maintaining second place and also securing a spot in the knockout stage.
Both opponents had already completed their task, but the game showed that the Swiss are in excellent form and ready for knockout matches.
Meanwhile, in another match of the group, Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated Qatar 3:1. This victory was Bosnia's second in World Cup history, but it left them with real chances to continue the fight. With four points in their account, they are in contention for the knockout stage as one of the best third-place teams. For Qatar, which earned only one point, the tournament ended.
Group C: Brazilian power and Moroccan fireworks
Group C delighted fans with its goal-scoring and confirmed Brazil's status as one of the main favorites of the entire tournament. In the match against Scotland, the Brazilians left no chance for their opponents, defeating them 3:0. Three wins in three matches — Brazil confidently takes first place, advancing to the knockout stage with maximum safety.
The second spot from the group was secured by Morocco, which defeated Haiti 4:2 in a thrilling and goal-filled match. The African team earned six points and rightfully continues the fight for the trophy. Scotland and Haiti, who failed to earn points, ended their participation in the tournament.
Key event of the day
The 15th matchday of the World Cup will be remembered not only for the crushing victories and the first spots in the knockout stage, but also for emotional moments. The most vivid of these was the advancement of the South African team to the next stage — an event that fans of this country had been waiting for for decades.
Behind them are the Czech Republic, South Korea, Qatar, Scotland, and Haiti. They are leaving the tournament, but for some of them, just participating was an achievement.
Ahead lies new matches, new intrigues, and the battle for the remaining spots in the knockout stage. The tournament is entering its decisive phase, and every game now could be the last for some of the big names.