The 2026 World Cup kicks off Thursday with Groups D, E, and F competing.
This marks the final day of group stage action for these 12 teams, as they vie for positions in the Round of 32. Teams will be fighting for the top spots, while others aim to secure vital third-place positions after mixed results in their initial matches.
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The knockout stage bracket will begin to take shape as group play concludes.
Here’s what you need to know for Day 15 of the World Cup.
Thursday, June 25 | 4 p.m. ET | Philadelphia | TV: Fox
Odds: Curaçao (+1600), Ivory Coast (-650), Tie (+700)
Group E has significant stakes, with second place up for grabs and the possibility of a third-place finish. Ivory Coast can secure second in the group with a win or draw against Curaçao. Conversely, if they lose and Ecuador defeats Germany, they will be out of the tournament.
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Curaçao, on the other hand, requires several favorable outcomes. They can claim second place if they defeat Ivory Coast and Germany beats Ecuador, or if they win against Ivory Coast while Ecuador defeats Germany, allowing Curaçao to surpass Ecuador on goal difference. A loss or draw against Ivory Coast, combined with Ecuador finding success against Germany, would result in their elimination.
Ecuador vs. Germany
Thursday, June 25 | 4 p.m. ET | East Rutherford, N.J. | TV: Fox
Odds: Ecuador (+280), Germany (-120), Tie (+320)
Germany has already secured the top spot in the group and will next face a third-place team from either Groups A, B, C, D, or F.
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Ecuador can secure second place if they win against Germany, Curaçao defeats Ivory Coast, and they have a superior goal difference over Curaçao. If Ecuador loses to Germany, they will be eliminated unless Curaçao also suffers a defeat against Ivory Coast.
Thursday, June 25 | 7 p.m. ET | Dallas | TV: Fox
Odds: Japan (-120), Sweden (+340), Tie (+250)
Group F showcases a tight race with Netherlands and Japan sitting on equal points, with Sweden trailing closely behind. A victory for either Japan or Sweden guarantees advancement. A draw could still see Sweden progress as one of the third-place teams.
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Tunisia vs. Netherlands
Thursday, June 25 | 7 p.m. ET | Kansas City, Mo. | TV: Fox
Odds: Tunisia (+2200), Netherlands (-1000), Tie (+900)
The Eagles of Carthage, having been eliminated after their first two matches, are playing for pride. A draw is sufficient for the Dutch to advance, while a win could secure them the top spot in the group based on Japan’s performance against Sweden.
Türkiye vs. USA
Thursday, June 25 | 10 p.m. ET | Inglewood, Calif. | TV: Fox
Odds: Türkiye (+260), USA (-110), Tie (+300)
The USMNT has claimed group victory after just two matches—a first in their history. They’re set to face Türkiye, who have already been eliminated. Expect roster adjustments for the U.S. due to four players on yellow cards, and Christian Pulisic (calf) is expected to be available for coach Mauricio Pochettino.
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Thursday, June 25 | 10 p.m. ET | Santa Clara, Calif. | TV: Fox
Odds: Paraguay (+185), Australia (+300), Tie (+120)
With second place in Group D at stake, Australia can secure their position with a win or draw, while Paraguay must win to claim second. A draw could still favor Paraguay, depending on the overall third-place standings.
